Body Worlds Exhibit Returns to Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry

The Body Worlds exhibit, featuring preserved human specimens through the process of plastination, has reopened at Chicago’s Museum of Science, and Industry. The exhibition offers visitors an in-depth look at human anatomy, showcasing whole-body specimens and organ systems to illustrate how the body functions.

According to the museum’s presentation, the exhibit includes over 200 preserved pieces of deceased human beings, with approximately two dozen whole-body specimens displayed in various poses, such as athletic or artistic positions. These specimens are preserved using plastination, a technique that replaces bodily fluids and fats with plastics to maintain anatomical detail even as preventing decomposition.

The exhibition explains the functions of major organ systems, including the nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Visitors can observe how nerves transmit signals throughout the body, how the heart pumps blood through vessels, and how lungs facilitate oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange. The displays aim to educate the public on anatomy, health, and the inner workings of the human body.

Body Worlds has been presented in museums worldwide and has evolved in its presentation over time. Early showings emphasized the artistic aspects of the specimens, while recent iterations focus more on scientific education and health awareness. The exhibit encourages reflection on personal health, bodily awareness, and what it means to be human.

As of April 2026, the exhibit is open to the public at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, continuing its mission to provide accessible anatomy education through real human specimens preserved via plastination.

Sources: Museum of Science and Industry exhibition details, Body Worlds official description, and historical coverage of the exhibit’s presentation in Chicago.