Learned in Science, Explored in Art

Medicine [Collage], Wolfgang A. Ritschel, 2006.

To mark the opening of the Donald C. Harrison Health Sciences Library, the Libraries presented “Learned in Science, Explored in Art: An Exhibit of Paintings and Sculpture by Wolfgang Ritschel,” comprising 35 paintings and 10 pieces of sculpture with medical or health themes. The exhibit was on display September 15 through December 15, 2008.

“To mark the opening of this vibrant, new library we knew we needed an event that would delight and inspire the first wave of library users and visitors,” said Victoria A. Montavon, Dean and University Librarian. “Fortunately for us, the remarkable talent and art of Wolfgang Ritschel immediately presented the perfect solution.”

The artwork in the exhibit embraced the medical areas of diagnosis, therapy, surgery, and research. It was grounded in respect for the patient, the health professional, and the researcher. With such pieces as “Dyslexia,” “When All Fades into Nothing,” and “The Horror of Toxic Dangers,” the exhibit did not shy away from unpleasant subjects. Themes of hope and life were also represented, however, with pieces such as “Ode to Life,” “The Conquest of Polio,” and “Healing.”

Wolfgang Ritschel is Professor Emeritus of Pharmacokinetics and Professor Emeritus of Pharmacology. He is an accomplished artist who has exhibited his work throughout the world with over 60 solo and 250 group art shows. Ritschel describes his painting style as “expressionism influenced by fauvism.”

After being on display in the Donald C. Harrison Health Sciences Library, the exhibit will be transported to health sciences libraries throughout the United States for the next two years. Host libraries include Howard University; the University of Maryland, Baltimore; the University of South Florida; and the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, among others.

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