The Kentucky Science Center in Louisville opened its doors this morning for visitors to view an extraordinary collection of human specimens in BODY WORLDS Vital. In an effort to educate the community about the human body, the incredible display promotes health and wellness, encourages good lifestyle choices, and depicts the science of anatomy in ways never seen before. A series of interactive events have been scheduled for the duration of the exhibit by more than seven organizations who have partnered with the Science Center. Guests will learn about the inner workings of the human body, discover the process of Plastination, and be thoroughly captivated in the awe-inspiring IMAX film, The Human Body. Join more than 35 million people that have viewed BODY WORLDS around the world by attending this special exhibit in Louisville.
There are a total of 14 full-body specimens; the majority of which were donated for educational purposes. Brittney Gorter, Senior Manager of Marketing and Sales for the Science Center finds the exhibit “truly amazing”. The idea to preserve the specimens came from scientist and anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens from Germany. In a groundbreaking method that began in 1977, the innovative process of plastination halts the decomposition of specimens by extracting all bodily fluids and soluble fat, replacing them with reactive resins and elastomers, and curing them with light, heat or gases. This allows for rigidity and permanence. Dr. von Hagens’ original purpose for this invention was to educate medical students. Now on public display, the interest by the public goes far beyond medical reasons and captures the imagination by all that see it.
Each exhibition of BODY WORLDS is unique and displays a variety of specimens. As part of the theme-based Human Saga series, the focus on this particular exhibit in Louisville shows the effects of lifestyle choices on the various body systems; for instance, a healthy heart versus one affected by cardiovascular disease, and a healthy lung specimen next to a black lung damaged by smoking. The curator behind merging Plastination in a creative presentation with themes is Dr. Angelina Whalley, spouse of Dr. von Hagens. For information on past and future exhibitions of BODY WORLDS, visit www.bodyworlds.com.
The kick-off for BODY WORLDS Vital began last night with a gala evening of food and entertainment. Guests had an opportunity to privately preview the exhibit and IMAX film as part of the Science Center’s annual fundraising event. According to Joanna Haas, Executive Director of the Science Center, “The event had a great turn out.” The grand opening this morning proved to be also off to a successful start. Haas added, “Typically Sunday mornings are quiet, but today, we are especially busy.” No doubt, the Science Center will continue to see crowds traveling from great distances over the next four months to see this incredible visit.
Don’t miss the latest chapter of BODY WORLDS, on display until May 19, 2013. Admission prices and hours may be found on the website.
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