The whole idea is based on artist Diemut Strebe’s intention to come up with a replica that comprises of living cells from Lieuwe van Gogh, who happens to be the great-great-grandson of Vincent’s brother Theo. The cells were shaped with a 3D printer in order to resemble the ear that was allegedly cut off by Van Gogh himself back in 1888. Those who are interested will be able to check out this strange exhibit over at the Centre for Art and Media in Karlsruhe, at least until July 6th.
Growing the ear required tissue-engineered cartilage, where the process took place at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital before it was sculpted to resemble that of Van Gogh’s thanks to modern day computer imaging technology. This ear will deteriorate unless it is kept in a nutrient solution that on paper, is able to last for years.