Brains: Anatomy Drawing Workshop

The second of a two-part anatomy-drawing workshop for MAWA members at the University of Manitoba Human Anatomy Lab with Dr. Sari Hannila on Sat. June 22, will cover Brains. The first session on Sat. June 15 will cover Bones.

$50 per session or $85 for both sessions

This workshop offers a rare opportunity to draw human specimens at the University of Manitoba Human Anatomy Lab. Dr. Sari Hannila will lead this investigation into the intricacies of the human body. Dr. Hannila will begin each session with a brief lecture outlining the human body donor program at the University of Manitoba, the history of anatomy and its relationship to art and the human materials being explored that day. She will then lead participants to the lab itself where she will illustrate with specimens and share her experience with anatomical study. The first session will focus on bones and the second on brains and neurological materials. There will be ample time for self-directed drawing.

The Anatomy Lab is a fascinating facility, filled with medical models both contemporary and historical, which you are also welcome to draw. The space is vast, so you can choose what to experience and what to draw. If you prefer to work exclusively with medical models (plastic and plaster), that is possible. Please consider your own sensitivities and know that you will be free to choose what to experience and when to take breaks.

Each participant must bring their own drawing or painting supplies and a hard-backed sketch book/tablet. Safety regulations require that participants cover their legs (pants or long skirt), wear closed-toe shoes and tie back long hair. Air quality is checked frequently due to the presence of chemical odours and falls well within safe levels; however, it is recommended that pregnant and breast-feeding women not participate. Note that photography is strictly forbidden. The Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science is profoundly respectful of the individuals who have donated their bodies to scientific study. If you are sensitive to scent, consider bringing a mask or handkerchief.

Dr. Sari Hannila completed her PhD in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology at Queen’s University and worked as a postdoctoral fellow in the laboratory of Dr. Marie Filbin at Hunter College in New York City. Her research focuses on the neurobiology of axonal regeneration in the central nervous system, with the goal of developing new treatments for spinal cord injury. She also studies the role of a protein called secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Hannila initiated the Neurocraft project with the Manitoba Craft Council.

Note to participants: meet at Starbucks near Brodie Centre entrance, 727 McDermot Ave. Metered parking is available on the street and at HSC.