WHERE’S YOUR HEAD AT? (2019)

A genuine Camptosaurus skeleton from the Upper Jurassic period, around 154 million years old, was found in Albany County, Wyoming. This dinosaur was about 12.34 feet long, 4.6 feet tall, and 3 feet wide. Its head, originally about 9.8 inches long, had a brain that was roughly 2.3 to 3.1 inches in size.

In a creative twist, a meteorite of similar size has been placed on the dinosaur's neck, symbolizing where its brain would have been. This gesture connects to the idea that 65 million years ago, a massive meteorite impact—like the Chicxulub asteroid—was a key factor in the dinosaurs' extinction. The meteorite’s shape, resembling a human brain, is arranged with the brainstem pointing left and the larger part of the brain on the right.

The piece is titled "Where's Your Head At?" and invites viewers to think about mental balance and rationality. It serves as a metaphor for how humanity needs to manage Earth and its future carefully, especially in the face of climate change, environmental damage, and natural disasters.

The installation reminds us that while humans may feel like the top species, dinosaurs once ruled the Earth and their reign was just as temporary. Our unique intelligence is what sets us apart, and we need to use it wisely to avoid becoming stagnant or indifferent.

Overall, "The Authentic Camptosaurus Skeleton" blends scientific history with symbolism, urging us to reflect on our role in the world and the importance of using our intellect to protect our planet.

© Text by Tom Herck
© Pictures by Tom Herck