Anatomy

USA / 2008 / Natasha Gadd / Rhys Graham / Amy Gebhardt / 3x30 mins

“Anatomy” features three unusual and compelling stories exploring how sexuality and the body work as driving forces in the creative process.

Episode 1, “Muscle” unflinchingly follows three-piece physical performance troupe Acrobat (Simon Yates, his partner Jo-Ann Lancaster, and collaborator Mozes) as they set off on tour following a difficult and dramatic period of physical and emotional collapse. With candour and intimacy, “Muscle” delves beneath the stylized, artificial realm of circus performance to explore the complex relationship humans have with their bodies and the devastating impact on the heart and mind that results when the body proves, ultimately, to be fallible.

Episode 2, “Skin”, examines the relationship between artist eX de Medici, equally renowned for her vivid paintings as for her groundbreaking tattooing, and
Geoff Ostling, an overweight 65-year-old whose body has been etched with a tapestry of flowers by eX’s needles and ink. The film charts their journey as Geoff’s body suit –their collaborative artwork - is completed after 25 years. Now entirely tattooed, Geoff is forced to confront his mortality as he and eX undertake to have Geoff’s skin preserved and exhibited after he dies.

Episode 3, “Heart”, explores the changing nature of love within the creative process, as we watch artist Jacqui Stockdale embarking on a portrait of her long time muse Rose. Through the weaving together of both historical and contemporary perspectives, the film explores this unique ten year artist/model relationship, how it was born and how it persisted through the emotional storms of their creative life.