In 1977 Gunther von Hagens invented and patented the process known as plastination, which involves the removal of bodily fluids and replacing them with polymers.

He received a doctorate from the University of Heidelberg in 1975 where he worked in the institute of Anatomy and Pathology until 1995. Von Hagens was a visiting professor in Dalian and a guest professor at New York University College of Dentistry. He developed the Body Worlds exhibition that went on tour in 1995 and stimulated both public interest and controversy. In 2002 von Hagens performed a controversial televised autopsy in London. His works and the exhibitions surrounding plastination remain controversial around the world.

During the process of plastination about 70% of the body (mainly fluids and fats) are replaced by polymers such as silicone rubber or polyester resin, using a special vacuum process. Using plastination, it is now possible to preserve natural anatomical specimens and even whole bodies. The features and structures of the specimens are retained in this process. The end results are durable, real and aesthetic preservations that can be used for teaching and research purposes; and as this exhibition demonstrates, for general education. Each specimen requires more than 5,000 man hours to produce, and is a mix of art and science.

Why would the public be interested in this exhibition?

Prior to The Amazing Bodies Exhibition, this level of real anatomical detail has been hidden behind closed doors and could only be experienced by select members of the medical community. The purpose of displaying The Amazing Bodies Exhibition is to inspire the general public to learn more about how the human and animal body function and attempt to take the visitors on an intellectual and emotional journey.

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How is the exhibition organised?

As you take a self-guided tour through The Amazing Bodies Exhibition, you can explore one body system at a time, including the locomotive, nervous, respiratory, skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, urogenetal, digestive and reproductive systems. Full-body specimens are included throughout the exhibit to show how the systems work in real human and animal bodies.

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What is the difference between plastinates & man-made artificial models?

The plastinted specimens show details of disease, pathology, physiology and anatomy in a unique way that cannot be shown with models, textbooks or photos. In addition, the exhibition allows the audience to understand that each and every body has their own unique features, even on the inside. It is an established fact that audiences relate far better to real specimens (such as plastinates) rather than man-made artificial models.

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How many plastinates are in the exhibition?

The exhibition features approximately 400 authentic human & animal specimens, including more than 30 whole bodies.

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Where did the specimens come from?

The specimens in this exhibit are from voluntary body donors - individuals who bequeathed that upon their death, their bodies could be used in this exhibition for education purposes. In making their donation, these voluntary donors agreed that all aspects of their identities, including age and cause of death, would remain confidential. The exhibit focuses on the nature of our bodies, not on providing personal information.

All the animals on displayed died from natural causes. No animals were harmed in bringing you this exhibition.

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Why are the whole body plastinates posed differently?

The poses of the plastinated whole bodies illustrate different anatomical and physiological features. It is a juxtaposition of science and art to vividly accentuate various physiological features.

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How long does it take to view the exhibition?

Past experience has shown that it typically takes about 90 minutes to visit the exhibition. Some school and special interest groups have taken longer to view and examine the displays. It is not uncommon for art groups to spend several days sketching and analysing the human and animal form in a way that is never been possible.

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What is the capacity inside the exhibition at a time?

The exhibition has a capacity of up to 800 people. In case of a capacity crowd, entrance into the exhibit is contingent on the number of people exiting the exhibition.

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Is touching of plastinated specimens allowed?

Audiences are generally not allowed to touch the exhibits, though in certain parts of the exhibition, audiences have the option of touching a select group of plastinates to better understand both the anatomy and the process of plastination.

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Is this exhibition appropriate for children?

Due to the sensitive nature of this exhibition, The Amazing Bodies Exhibition requires that children under 13 be accompanied by a responsible adult, parent, guardian, teacher or school chaperone. There may be displays in the exhibit that adults will wish to explain to their children in more detail. The organisers of The Amazing Bodies Exhibition will provide information and offer helpful tips for visiting the exhibition with children.

Unaccompanied children will not be allowed into the exhibition.

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Is this exhibition appropriate for school field trips?
Educational and health authorities recommend this exhibition for school groups in Year 5 and up and require that the teacher obtain permission from a parent or guardian of each child to view the exhibition. Due to the large number of school groups that will be attending the exhibition, it will be necessary to book attendance dates and times.

This can be done at School Section of this website. Buses will be able to drop off and collect students at the entrance of the exhibition. Bus and coach parking is available in close proximity.

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Are photos & filming of the exhibition allowed?

Photography and filming are not allowed in The Amazing Bodies Exhibition, except by the approved reporters of the media. We thank you for your cooperation.

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Which city will the exhibition be visiting next?

We will update our website regularly with new information on future touring cities and dates. Please check back on our website regularly.

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What merchandises are available?

A range of merchandises will be made available. A catalogue of the entire exhibit with detailed labeling and text is available for purchase.

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How do I book an evening session?
Please contact sessions@amazingbodies.com.au for evening session bookings.

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Will there be guided tours?
Acoustic guides are available for hire and guided tours are available. Specially arranged tours are also available for interest groups and schools. More in-depth tour can be arranged by emailing schools@amazingbodies.com.au.
Knowledgeable curators will be on hand at the exhibition to provide any assistance needed.

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