In a captivating fusion of art, science, and conservation, Har-Ber high school students recently embarked on an unforgettable journey through the temporary exhibit “Exquisite Creatures” by Christopher Marley at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Virginia Arkansas. The exhibit, which showcases Marley’s intricate arrangements of preserved insects, birds, and reptiles, sparked a range of reactions and animal reflections among the young visitors
For bird students, the exhibit was nothing short of mesmerizing. From shimmering beetles arranged in kaleidoscopic patterns to delicate butterflies suspended in intricate formations, each display seemed to transport visitors into a realm of wonder and awe. Christopher Marley’s art is breathtakingly intricate and visually stunning compositions. His work typically features a diverse array of natural specimens, with a special emphasis on insects, arranged to highlight their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unique forms. Beyond insects, Marley’s art also encompasses birds, reptiles, and even minerals, each one treated with the same reverence for its inherent beauty and unique characteristics. Marley’s arrangements often emphasize symmetry, rhythm, and balance, creating visually striking patterns that draw the viewer in for a closer look. Whether arranged in geometric grids or flowing curves, each composition invites contemplation and appreciation of the natural world’s diversity. For senior Delaney Roller and her peers in Ms. Allison’s Ceramics II class, the exhibit offered a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world in a way she had never seen before.
“The colors and patterns of the creatures were absolutely amazing,” Roller said.”I feel like I’d rather see taxidermy like that than for these animals just to die and we never get to see their beauty and how God made them and how they were created.”
Amidst the wonder and admiration, some educators saw in Marley’s work a challenge to traditional artistic mediums.Traditionally, artists work with paint, clay, or stone, but taxidermy incorporates preserved animal specimens. Unlike paintings or sculptures that may degrade over time, taxidermy preserves the subject indefinitely. This raises questions about the transient nature of art and the boundaries between life and death, preservation and decay. This challenges the viewer to reconsider what can be considered art and expands the boundaries of artistic expression.
“Taxidermy, as an art form, challenges our notions of beauty and artistic expression,” Mrs. Allison said.”Marley’s use of preserved specimens forces us to confront the boundaries between life and death, beauty and decay.”
However, for some students, the use of taxidermy in art raises important ethical questions.Taxidermy raises ethical questions about the treatment of animals and the boundaries of artistic expression. Artists must navigate the ethical implications of using deceased animals in their work, prompting viewers to confront their own beliefs and values regarding the treatment of animals and the role of art in society. Martin’s sentiment reflects a growing awareness among artists about the ethical implications of human interactions with the natural world. Martin expresses explicitly that they value the use of taxidermy as they have their own experience with pinning bugs, however the sheer amount of animals raised some concerns. Additionally, Marley claims that the art he creates is for the use of preservation and conservation. However, some of the specimens had removed heads (Marley explained to Ms. Allison in an educator’s meeting that this was done for practical reasons to help display larger birds). This was perceived as “a little ghoul-ish” to Martin
“When the heads were removed from the birds, it felt a little wrong. It felt kind of like you were destroying the image of these animals and seems disrespectful when you’re trying to preserve them,” shared Martin, who visited in their own time.