Anatomy - Alexandre Diop: A Special Contemporary Art Exhibition at Josephinum Vienna

This special exhibition at the Josephinum showcases the work of contemporary French-Senegalese artist Alexandre Diop alongside the institution's historical anatomical wax models. Diop's 'object images,' created from diverse materials, engage in a dialogue with 18th-century didactic objects, exploring themes of anatomy and art history.

For the first time, contemporary art is presented within the historical setting of the Josephinum's anatomical wax models. The exhibition features a selection of works by French-Senegalese artist Alexandre Diop, presented in collaboration with the Shariat Collections. Diop's art-historical references, human anatomy, and independent artistic strategies enter into a dialogue with the 18th-century objects housed in the Josephinum. Founded in 1785, the Josephinum houses a significant collection of anatomical wax models commissioned by Joseph II for the Military Surgical Academy. These didactic aids, preserved in their original showcases, are now complemented by Diop's 'object images.' Diop, a Vienna-based artist studying painting at the Academy of Fine Arts, creates works that blend painting, sculpture, and relief, utilizing materials such as latex, textiles, wood, paper, and photos. His participation in this exhibition highlights the Shariat Collections' focus on supporting and showcasing contemporary African art and artists.