January 20, 2015
05:00 pm

Art and Anatomy in the Italian Renaissance

Italian Cultural Institute of New York
686 Park Avenue
10065 New York, NY
United States

Art and Anatomy in the Italian Renaissance

Italy's medieval universities established the study of human anatomy for physicians. To heighten their art, Renaissance masters clandestinely examined anatomy through human dissection. The profound connection between art and science is best demonstrated by the genius of Michelangelo. Indeed, the wooden crucifix he carved in gratitude for secret access to corpses from a conventʼs hospital still hangs in the Basilica of Santo Spirito in Florence. This talk will examine the nexus between art and science, and the history of anatomy education in the university.

Kevin Petti, Ph.D. is a dual U.S./Italian citizen, a college professor in the departments of science and health at San Diego Miramar College, a textbook coauthor, and president-emeritus of the Human Anatomy and Physiology Society. He teaches courses in human anatomy and physiology, human dissection, and health science. He also teaches study abroad courses to Italy that focus on the genesis of anatomy as a science and its influence on the Renaissance masters. Dr. Petti is often invited to speak at universities, conferences, museums, and Italian-American groups.