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To raise global awareness, MEND collaborates each year with Le Laboratoire – a new center for art and science experimentation in Paris, France - to conduct an experiment in the realm of global health. In 2008 we proposed a kind of experiment where the poignant work of the artist might catalyze the creative work of the scientist, and where the insight of scientist might alter the lens of the artist.
Outcome of this experiment, the James Nachtwey exhibition presented in Paris provided the setting for a scientific conference organized by MEND which focuses on ways to introduce technology into the medical science battle against infectious diseases.
Two years ago we asked the artist to work in this battle with medical scientists. Looking closely at striking photography visitors could see healing hands – hands of medical scientist who cares for patients suffering from AIDS and tuberculosis. These hands, and the words and films that accompany them, testify to the reason we do what we do. Passion to help those who cannot help themselves drives much of the creative work of medical science, perhaps especially in the largely humanitarian context of infectious disease research.
James Nachtwey is one of the most honoured photojournalists working in the world today. Recognized as a war photographer, as a synthesis of selfless journalist and exquisite artist whose photographs appear at once on covers of Time Magazine and in prestigious art galleries, several years ago James joined the global war against infectious disease.
In addition to the Nachtwey photographs, the exhibition includes powerful film portraits by the New York artist Asa Mader. These portraits are of the medical scientists Peter Singer, Abdallah Daar, Anne Goldfeld, and Ed Nardell.
Photos Credit: Marc Domage