FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Exhibit at the Crocker
Considers Genetic Mutation

Humanimals and Their Kin:
The Art of Gerald Heffernon
On View May 29 – August 22, 2004

 May 21, 2004 – Sacramento, Calif. – As the international debate on cloning continues and scientists search for links between genetic mutations and disease, the new exhibit Humanimals and Their Kin: The Art of Gerald Heffernon, on view at the Crocker May 29 – August 22, forces viewers to consider possible effects of genetic mutation.

Sacramento-based artist, Gerald Heffernon creates life-like sculptures of hybridized species including human-animal mutations, or “humanimals.” These creatures, described by the artist as ranging from “the dark side of cute” to “the beautiful side of hideous,” are certain to shock, amuse, delight and disturb viewers while raising questions about the potential of natural adaptation and the undetermined future of genetic engineering.

Heffernon, who plans to sculpt the entire phyla of the animal kingdom, plays the roles of zoologist, genetic engineer and mad scientist in crafting his sculptures, which are so realistic that viewers often ask if they are taxidermy. Artificial materials set on polyurethane foam and wire armatures achieve fool-the-eye believability.

“I find beauty in my monsters,” Heffernon says. “Of course, most people don’t. Still, I think the standards of conventional beauty can be wrapped around a strange, alien object or being.”

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The Crocker Art Museum was founded in 1885 and continues as the leading art institution for the California Capital Region and Central Valley. The Museum offers a diverse spectrum of special exhibitions, events and programs to augment its collections of Californian, European and Asian artworks. The Crocker is located at 216 O Street in downtown Sacramento. Museum hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesday – Sunday; Thursday until 9 p.m. For more information on exhibits and events call (916) 264-5423 or visit crockerartmuseum.org.

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Media Contact: LeAnne R. Ruzzamenti
Media: (916) 264-1963
Mobile : (916) 213-9402
Public: (916) 264-5423
216 O Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
www.crockerartmuseum.org