Heather is an artist and researcher who has been investigating an authentic human anatomical teaching skeleton (ATS) within the university, using methods of drawing to develop reflective and critical analysis of ethical considerations regarding human remains in the absence of recorded consent.
Coming from an artistic background in portrait painting and interest in human identity, anatomy and ethics, this case study investigates how artistic methods can support ethical reflection on the care, representation and stewardship of human remains of uncertain provenance.

The listed drawings are of fake plastic bones, to act ethically in the portrayal of human remains where provenance, consent and identity are unknown.

Project: The Skeleton in the Closet: An investigation of an anatomical teaching skeleton in the School of Arts & Creative Industries at LJMU

About the Project “The Skeleton in the Closet” has been a one-year practice-led investigation of an authentic human anatomical teaching skeleton (ATS) within the School of Art & Creative Industries at Liverpool John Moores University.

Undertaking an interdisciplinary approach; expertise and guidance from experts in forensic anthropology, collaboration with the Fab Lab, archival research and collection of oral histories, this case study explored the ethical considerations of continued use of ATS’s, including concerns surrounding consent, storage, use, digitization and care.

The research drawing method has enabled the ability to process a thread of questioning through practical study, provoking critical thinking and reflection through drawing, applying different drawing techniques, such as haptic-visual, to the method. Addressing and reassessing what might be considered appropriate ‘use’, where consent is not present, focusing more upon the process than the result; and boundaries surrounding the study of fake plastic bones, 3D printed material, and authentic human remains.

The research has been collated and presented to senior management to request the donation of the ATS from the School of Art & Creative Industries to a facility in the Forensic Anthropology Department for continued stewardship.