Natural history museums: fact or fiction?

What goes into the making of natural history dioramas? And how do these dioramas inform us? My first piece for Scienceline explores the line between art and actuality in natural history displays. AND if you’re free this weekend, go to Wave Hill in the Bronx to catch the last couple days of “Recapturing the Scenic Wilds,” the exhibit on natural history that this article is based on. Not only is the exhibit thought-provoking and well-curated, Wave Hill is a stunning escape from the city.

Image: Richard Barnes , “Suspended Giraffe,” 2005, Digital C-print, 48” x 60.” Courtesy of the artist and Foley Gallery.