One of the most controversial shows ever to do the rounds on the global circuit is undoubtedly, Bodies – the Exhibition. This event aims to showcase the workings of the human body using real human specimens in various positions. Bodies – the Exhibition has been described as anything from freakish to fascinating, and yet has managed to draw millions of people who are keen to come face to face with sights and images that they might never be able to see again. Bodies – the Exhibition is being held at the Tropicana Resort & Casino complex in Las Vegas and offers both locals and tourists alike the chance to pay a visit.
Using an advanced process called plastination, body parts are preserved in a dry, odorless state to allow them to look surprisingly lifelike, even if we are talking about the deceased. The organizers stress that the exhibition’s primary objective is to educate the public about the internal workings of the human body. Their claim is that the only way that people can truly understand how things operate in a body is to see the real thing up close. And indeed, no textbook drawing or lecturer’s explanation could ever prepare visitors for what is on view at Bodies… The Exhibition.
There are over 20 full-scale human bodies on show at the exhibition, as well as scores of other partial specimens and over 200 body organs. All of these have been preserved and are tastefully (and respectfully, one might add) presented to the general public to gain a deeper understanding of one of the most elaborate systems on earth – the human body. Visitors will be able to gain a deeper appreciation of the intricate details involved in keeping humans alive, as well as the complexity of the entire system.
The exhibition provides visitors a rare opportunity to examine how their circulatory, muscular, respiratory and skeletal features are built and function through a close up look at dissected bodies. One exhibit may show the human brain through a cut in the skull, while another shows a brain in its entirety. In addition, visitors can view the process of fetal development in a woman’s body through a number of preserved embryos ranging from 18 days to 24 weeks. While visitors are advised to avoid this room if they so choose, it does shed light on the magnificent workings of the female body and the number of birth defects such as spina bifida that may unfortunately occur during pregnancy. Visitors are provided with detailed information through placards and educational signs throughout the exhibition.
Although Bodies – the Exhibition is meant to educate people on the workings of the human body, it is also meant as a wake up call for people to choose a healthier lifestyle. People can view a black lung ravaged with smoke damage next to the healthy lung of a non-smoker, or they can see how layers of fat accumulate and destroy the body due to an unhealthy diet.
For visitors wanting to view an exhibition that is both fascinating and educational (and one that they won’t be forgetting for a long time to come), Bodies – the Exhibition at the Tropicana Resort & Casino complex fits the bill. |
