COVER STORY
Skin
Kurt Andersen and former stripper Lily Burana discuss why artists have a creative attachment to skin and surfaces.

Surface, Substance, And Design
The current exhibition at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum examines all kinds of synthetic and organic skins, edges, and membranes. Julia Barton has a look.
Go to the Cooper Hewitt Skin exhibit

John Updike
The novelist reads from his essay "At War With My Skin" and explains exactly how his life and work pivot around his skin disorder, psoriasis. Produced by Caitlin Shetterly.
Go to a New York Times site on Updike
Go to an Updike fan site

Sound Suit
A visit to the studio of Chicago artist Nick Cave. To make his "Sound Suits" Cave covers every inch of himself with objects -- twigs, bottle caps, bells, garbage bag ties -- anything that generates noise when it moves. Produced by Hilary Frank.
Go to an article on Nick Cave

Ann Hamilton
Surfaces, of the body and of other things, all fascinate the sculptor Ann Hamilton. She told us about two of her projects, "Welle" and the "Toothpick Suit." Produced by Keeno Ahmed.
Go to Ann Hamilton on Art 21
Go to Ann Hamilton at the Sean Kelly Gallery

Calfskin vs. Plastic
On drums, calfskin was the membrane of choice for centuries -- until plastic came along. But what role does calfskin play now? Produced by Michael Raphael.

SPECIAL GUEST
Lily Burana
Lily Burana is the author of Strip City: A Stripper's Farewell Journey America.
Go to Lily Burana's site

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Now Playing
Ukuleleist Herb Ohta has recorded more than 60 albums. His most recent is a collaboration with Lyle Ritz. The new release is being touted as the first-ever live jazz ukulele CD. Produced by Steve Nelson.
Go to the Flea Market Music