Window Into the Brain

Owen was commissioned by Skelton Sprouls to create a multi-layered paper sculpture for the spring issue of Johns Hopkins Medicine Magazine. 

Johns Hopkins researchers are looking to the eyes for important clues to help diagnose, manage, and treat devastating diseases. Owen was approached to help represent this through an abstract paper eye, showing the pupil on the cover and then a cross-section of the retina as the full sculpture is revealed on the article opener double-page spread.

The artwork was handcrafted out of a large array of paper sheets and then pieced together, using foamboard to add space between the layers. The final artwork was then shot by Owen in his studio using natural light, to help retain the paper textures and retain the handmade feel of the piece. 

The client were also after a very hands-on feel, so minimal retouching was done to the final image.