August 23, 2024
What: Virginians only have a few more weeks to experience the North American museum debut of “BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness.” The popular touring exhibition closes at the Science Museum of Virginia on Labor Day.
“BODY WORLDS” offers guests a new understanding of the amazing beauty of the human body and appreciation for how hard it works to execute all its functions. They will see how our bodies nourish, regulate and maintain life through more than 100 human specimens.
“BODY WORLDS” features organs, biological systems and full bodies without skin so guests can see the bones, muscles, tendons, nerves, tissue and blood vessels. Specimens are dry, odorless and virtually everlasting. All bodies featured in the exhibition were willingly donated to the Institute for Plastination during the donor’s lifetime for this purpose.
When: “BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness” closes Monday, Sept. 2, after being on display at the Science Museum since May. The Science Museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Science Museum is also offering extended hours each Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. to give guests the chance to see the specimens at the reduced, exhibition-only price of $10. All other Science Museum exhibitions and labs will be closed during this time.
Why: Often people don’t think about their body until something is wrong with it. “BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness” encourages guests to proactively consider taking care of their body to prevent problems, which in turn promotes happiness.
The real specimens offer a powerful visual to help guests better understand the mind-body connection. Having access to the knowledge of what makes our bodies work, how they function and how emotions affect those functions can help guests feel more empowered to make decisions that will have a positive impact on their life.
Who: The exhibition is designed for ages 8 and up. It was co-created by the anatomist Gunther von Hagens, inventor of plastination, and Dr. Angelina Whalley, curator of “BODY WORLDS” and Director of the Institute for Plastination in Germany.
How: “BODY WORLDS” is available through a combination ticket that includes access to the Science Museum’s regular exhibitions, labs and demos. Admission is $22.50 for adults; $19.50 for youth (ages 6-12) and seniors (ages 60 and older); and $15 for preschool-aged children (ages 3-5).
Discounts are available for teachers, military personnel and through the Museums for All program. Discounted tickets must be purchased in person at Guest Services. Science Museum members receive unlimited free admission to the “BODY WORLDS” touring exhibition.
Guests may purchase tickets on the Science Museum’s website or in person at Guest Services when they arrive.
Where: Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220