Considered the father of modern neuroscience, Santiago Ramón y Cajal (1852-1934) studied thin slices of human and animal brains under a microscope and made detailed drawings of his discoveries. Combining his scientific and artistic skills, he showed that the brain is composed of individual cells—a new idea at the time. In an exhibit at the U of M’s Weisman Art Museum from January 28 to May 21, made possible by presenting sponsor Beverly N. Grossman, his drawings will be accompanied by contemporary visualizations of the brain, along with photographs, historic books, and scientific tools.

See some of the pieces on display below.

Images courtesy of Weisman Art Museum and Instituto Cajal (CSIC)