Exhibition guide for ANIMAL INSIDE OUT.
What is the purpose of the animal exhibition?
- The purpose of BODY WORLDS: ANIMAL INSIDE OUT is to inspire a deeper appreciation and respect for the animal world. The exhibition will allow visitors the unique opportunity to explore the intricate biology and physiology of some of the world's most spectacular creatures, using the amazing science of Plastination.
- A visit to ANIMAL INSIDE OUT will go beyound what is seen in zoos, aquariums and animal parks. Visitors will be better able to understand the inner workings of animals and compare them to human anatomy, resulting in a new understanding of the amazing beauty of both animals and humans.
Where did the animals on display come from?
- ANIMAL INSIDE OUT is made possible with cooperation between various university veterinary programs, zoos and animal groups. No animal was harmed or killed for this exhibition.
- Among the animals in the exhibition are human specimens, originating from the Institute for Plastination's body donation program. The generosity of these individual donors has made it possible to present human specimens in this and all of the BODY WORLDS exhibitions.
What kinds of specimens are displayed in this exhibition?
- ANIMAL INSIDE OUT includes full body plastinates as well as cross-sections, skeletons, blood vessel configurations and organs. The inclusion of human plastinates allows for the comparison of human anatomy to that of other animals in the exhibition, resulting in a new understanding and appreciation of the similarities between animals and humans.
Are there human plastinates in the exhibition as well?
- ANIMAL INSIDE OUT features a few human organs and body parts, as well as a full male body platinate. These specimens are included for the comparison of human anatomy to that of animals.
What is plastination?
- Invented by scientist and anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens in 1977, Plastination is the groundbreaking method of halting decomposition to preserve anatomical specimens for scientific and medical education. The process involves extracting all bodily fluids and soluble fat from specimens, replacing them through vacuum-forced impregnation with reactive resins and elastomers, and then curing them with light, heat or certain gases, which give the specimens rigidity and permanence.
Is this exhibition appropriate for children?
- ANIMAL INSIDE OUT was designed for visitors of all ages to better understand animal anatomy. Children and adults will be delighted when they discover curiosities about animals - like the reason why reindeer can navigate icy ground, what the giraffe's tongue is capable of, and why bulls have such strength. This exhibition provides an opportunity to see and learn about animals like never before.
What educational materials are provided?
- Educator materials are available for download here.
Will I be able to touch any of the plastinates?
- While you will be able to get very close to the plastinates, as a rule, visitors are not allowed to touch them.
How long will I need to fully appreciate the exhibition?
- Average duration of a visit to ANIMAL INSIDE OUT is one hour but guests are welcome to remain in the exhibition as long as they wish, within opening hours.
Can you take photographs or film in the exhibition?
- Professional and commercial photography and filming in the exhibition is not allowed. Amateur photography with small handheld devices, is allowed. Please note that photography that may be distracting to other guests may be limited or restricted at any time. Members of the media wishing to photograph or film in the exhibition should contact Debbie Saunders, Library Director at 740.446.7323 x 235 / dsaunders@bossardlibrary.org.