A few weeks ago, I visited the body exhibit near Times Square. It was so much more interesting that I ever thought it would be! When I was little I was disgusted by dead bodies, blood, and dead things in general. As I got older, I grew more and more curious about what was in my body. The simplest muscles and body parts play an essential part of our everyday lives, and most people don’t seem to appreciate it as much. For example, we need our legs to walk, but once we twist our ankle, we are prohibited from doing the simplest task of walking.
When I went to the exhibit, the bodies were positioned in such an art-sy way on display. For instance, a man was holding his own skin in his hand; or a man holding his own organs in one hand. It was very interesting to see an actual organ in the exhibit. The picture above was the only picture I was allowed to take in the exhibit. It was amazing how each organ in our bodies play such an important role.
I absolutely loved how they positioned the bodies. This exhibit wasn’t just to learn but to experience what is in our bodies. I wonder what inspired the creator, Gunther von Hagen, of the exhibit to make such an exhibit. It was very interesting to see what’s in our bodies in 3D rather than in a book. I’m curious to who plans out the positions for the bodies. I’m also wondering about the physics behind holding the cadaver in place. For example, some models have the cadavers standing on one foot.
Hey Teresa!
Your visit to the NYC Body Exhibit reminded me of the time I visited it when I was in middle school. I can definitely relate to how you felt while you examined each body and their “art-sy” positioning! When I went for the first time, I was actually shocked that the exposition actually used deceased humans for their main attraction. I felt as if it was disrespectful to those that passed away, even if they consented to have their bodies used for scientific purposes. Reflecting over the experience however 5 years later, I realized the concept behind emphasizing the innards of a human being. I remember looking at each organ as intrinsic parts of the body and what an amazing composition of features humans are comprised of. We sometimes don’t pay attention to the complicated processes that occur for us to function properly and we should all be grateful for how and who we are. Since these organs and human parts are blown up in a more direct way, where we can actually immerse ourselves in the show and scrutinize each part, we can better comprehend what marvelous creations we are!
I find it interesting how the museum allows you to take that one picture despite the large number of exhibits they must have. Although I don’t really know what really makes up our bodies, I feel that it would be a great place to visit and have fun. The idea of bones, muscles, organs, and everything else placed in whatever way the curator wanted must have been quite a sight to see.