PHILADELPHIA – Experience a 5,000-mile adventure into the world of fossils through the eyes of an artist and a scientist. From Oct. 23 through Jan. 2, 2011, the Academy of Natural Sciences presents Cruisin’ the Fossil Freeway with Artist Ray Troll and Paleontologist Kirk Johnson, an exhibit that combines art and science, with a strong dose of imagination.
Ancient killer pigs, saber-toothed cats and “the angry bugs of Zion” are once more given life through the whimsical artwork of Alaska artist Ray Troll. Visitors will explore evolution, extinction and early life through Troll’s imagined scenes from millions of years ago, or so they seem. Action-packed illustrations bursting with color recount what Troll calls “the ultimate paleo road trip” that he and Denver paleontologist Kirk Johnson took through the American West a few years ago. The exhibit features 19 full-color prints, seven large-scale murals; a video in which Troll and Kirk describe the collaborative process that generates Troll’s wacky, but highly accurate, works of art; plus rarely seen fossils from the Academy’s world-renowned paleontology collection.
“Ray and Kirk have a knack for combining fossils and fun. The artwork in this exhibit has something for everyone—from young children to experienced rock hounds,” said Barbara Ceiga, vice president for public operations and director of exhibits.
Cruisin’ the Fossil Freeway is free with museum admission. The exhibition was organized by the Burke Museum at the University of Washington, in collaboration with Ray Troll and Kirk Johnson. Major sponsorship for the traveling exhibit has been provided by Microsoft Corporation, Pendleton and Elizabeth Carey Miller Charitable Foundation, and Wells Fargo.
The Academy of Natural Sciences, founded in 1812, is the oldest natural science research institution and museum in the Americas and a world leader in biodiversity and environmental research. The mission of the Academy is the encouragement and cultivation of the sciences.
HOURS: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Saturday–Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ADMISSION: $12 adults; $10 children 3-12, seniors, college students, military personnel; from May 28–Sept. 6 military and up to 5 family members are free; free for members and children under 3. $2 fee for Butterflies!
THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES · 1900 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN PARKWAY · PHILADELPHIA · PA 19103
www.ansp.org