The Curious Origins of “The Centaur of Volos”
In 1980, the Archaeological Society of Argos Orestiko made a remarkable discovery: three centaur burials located eight kilometers northeast of Volos, Greece. Among these archaeological finds, a peculiar centaur skeleton emerged, meticulously assembled by artist and University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh professor, Bill Willers. Willers ingeniously combined real human bones, sourced from an anatomical specimen in the biology department of his university, with the bones of a Shetland pony. The result was “The Centaur of Volos,” a work of art that blurred the lines between myth and reality.
A Deceptive Display and Thought-Provoking Intentions
Tea-stained to create a uniform hue and enhance authenticity, the conjoined human and pony bones formed a captivating spectacle. Touring various colleges throughout the 1980s, “The Centaur of Volos” captivated audiences before finding its permanent home at the Jack E. Reese Galleria in the Hodges Library of the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Willers’ creation aimed to challenge viewers’ critical thinking skills, urging them to question the credibility of even the most seemingly reliable sources.
The Legacy Continues: “The Centaur of Tymfi”
In 2008, Skulls Unlimited commissioned Bill Willers to embark on another artistic endeavor. This time, he crafted “The Centaur of Tymfi,” utilizing zebra bones instead of horse bones. The unique centaur skeleton found its place in the “Mythological Wildlife” exhibit at Arizona’s International Wildlife Museum in 2012. Subsequently, it was acquired by The Barnum Museum in Connecticut, adding a new chapter to the captivating legacy of centaur artistry.
The Power of Art and Challenging Perceptions
“The Centaur of Volos” stands as a testament to the power of art and its ability to challenge our perceptions. Through the fusion of real bones and artistic imagination, Bill Willers created an exhibit that pushed the boundaries of belief and encouraged critical thinking. This fascinating tale reminds us to question the extraordinary, even when presented in the most convincing form, and to embark on a quest for truth and knowledge in an age where misinformation can easily circulate.
