Today’s anatomical models, made of plaster or plastic and frequently found in educational classrooms, was a product of the golden age of naturalism. This was a period in the mid-19th century to the early 20th century when rapid scientific advancements led to the creation of the Victorian aesthetic. Artistic sensibilities of the time are characterized by the true-to-nature depictions of living organisms, supported by the rapid production of detailed scientific illustrations.
Philosophically, this meant that people used their bodies to understand the world through scientific methods. They saw that individual bodies were the starting point of their existence and that nature—animals and plants, were objects to be dissected and understood from a human-centred point of view. Today, the world has moved on from naturalism and reached a post-humanist point of view. Now, human beings are understood as merely another component to a larger planetary ecosystem, hence the scientific exploration of nature, from a human centred point-of-view is no longer the status quo.
Therefore, why are anatomical models of human beings, plants, and animals alike still the norm in classrooms everywhere? EVOLUTIO STUDIO, an artist- and scientist-made anatomy model company, would like to propose certain answers. The brand makes anatomy models for both the arts and health sectors. Whether in antique, PVC, or medical format, every piece helps to show the physiological similarities between humans, plants, and animals.
These models affirm a post-human connection; they show that even in species diversification, anatomical similarities still exist. Hence, these models help to carry the post-human message. They call for a state of equilibrium between all the different species and classes of organisms to maintain the delicate planetary ecosystem balance. This is why the anatomical models by EVOLUTIO STUDIO is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of Life on Land and Quality Education.
EVOLUTIO STUDIO's anatomical models offer a fresh perspective on the role of anatomy in a post-humanist world, challenging the traditional human-centred approach to science education. By highlighting physiological connections between humans, animals and plants, these models encourage people to view themselves as interconnected components within a delicate ecosystem. EVOLUTIO STUDIO’s work serves as an educational tool and a reminder of the importance of ecological harmony and mutual respect among species.
Find out more about anatomy models and their other initiatives by EVOLUTIO STUDIO on their website www.evolutio.art or Instagram @evolutio.art.