D. Lammie-Hanson: Indigo Seven: Gilded Agility

The exhibition of metalpoint drawings, particularly the group of works titled "Gilded Agility" from the Indigo Seven Series, at the International Museum of Surgical Science represents a unique convergence of art and medical science. These intricate works of art, created by D. Lammie-Hanson, utilize the rare and meticulous technique of metalpoint to capture the exquisite details of human musculature, particularly that of dancers.
The correlation between these drawings and the mission of the International Museum of Surgical Science lies in the shared focus on the human body's anatomy and function. The museum, dedicated to the history and advancement of surgical science, provides a fitting backdrop for showcasing artwork that meticulously examines and celebrates the human form.

Through metalpoint, an ancient technique known for its precision and permanence, Lammie-Hanson's drawings highlight the intricate musculature of dancers, echoing the detailed anatomical studies that have long been a cornerstone of surgical education and practice. This method allows for an unparalleled level of detail and subtlety, which is crucial for both artistic expression and scientific understanding.

These artworks, especially the "Gilded Agility" series, serve not only as visual marvels but also as educational tools, bridging the gap between artistic interpretation and anatomical accuracy. By presenting these drawings at the museum, visitors are offered a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the human body through both an artistic and scientific lens. This exhibition underscores the profound connection between the study of anatomy in medical science and its representation in fine art, celebrating the shared goal of deepening our understanding of the human form.

Light refreshments are included, and alcohol will be served to guests with proof of age. Alcohol served to guests 21+; ID required.

Accessible accommodations include a ramp entrance and elevator. If you need additional accessibility options or wheelchair seating, please contact us at [email protected].

Parking and Directions can be found here:

About the Artist:

D. Lammie-Hanson, a Harlem native, began her professional artistic journey in 1990. Notably, she exhibited at the UN Geneva Palais des Nations in Switzerland, addressing homelessness. In 2007, she earned the title of Artist of the Year at BAM DanceAfrica in Brooklyn.

Over the past decade, Lammie-Hanson has focused on metalpoint art, showcasing at Scope during Art Basel Miami; GW Carver Interpretive Museum, and Wiregrass Museum of Art in Alabama. Her work has also been displayed at prestigious institutions like the New Orleans African American Museum, Ashe Cultural Arts Center, McKenna Museum of African American Art, Arts New Orleans (formerly the Arts Council of New Orleans), and Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans.

In 2018, twenty-five of her artworks, including twenty-two silverpoint drawings, were published in the New Orleans Times-Picayune newspaper and later in a book for the city's Tricentennial. In 2019, she portrayed iconic musicians during the Essence Music Festival's 25th anniversary as part of Arts New Orleans Salon V2 residency.

Based in Chicago, Lammie-Hanson was accepted into the Hyde Park Arts Center's “Center Program” in 2021, culminating in the group show, “Dreams.” Her drawing “Dear Beautiful Black Boy” entered the permanent collection at the Hilliard Art Museum located at the Louisiana University in Lafayette, LA in 2022, making her their first living artist. In the same year, she joined Little Black Pearl's artist-in-residence program, creating one of the world’s largest masterpieces in silverpoint, "Dared to Be Black and Shining," which debuted at the Chicago Art Dept in January 2023.

In 2024, her goldpoint piece "Exhilaration" from the Indigo Seven series was included in the three-month exhibit “Personal Structures” at the 60th Venice Biennale in Venice, Italy. Continuing her metalpoint exploration, she introduces "Gilded Agility," a new collection within the Indigo Seven series, debuting in June 2024 at the International Museum of Surgical Science in Chicago, focusing on the movement of ballet and modern dancers.

About the Contemporary Art Program: The International Museum of Surgical Science supports a commitment to contemporary art and artists through exhibitions and programs that use the frame of contemporary artistic practice to examine new perspectives in medical-surgical science and our relationship to the body. The Museum’s Contemporary Arts Initiative includes rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, as well as an ongoing Artist in Residence program.

This project is partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.

The International Museum of Surgical Science acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, United States