The human body is one of the most interesting things and it is very complicated in how it operates. As technology and resources improve, our understanding of the human body and treatment we can provide when things aren’t working properly increases. If you’re living in London or planning a trip there soon, this is one event you simply need to add Foreign Bodies, Common Ground exhibition to your list of things to do here. It’s taking place between the 14th of November right through to the 10th of February, 2014. If you’re looking for some accommodation nearby, I have heard great things about Holiday Inn London Regent’s Park.
So what’s it all about?
This collection is a unique exploration into health across the globe and how it varies from country to country. It is a comprehensive collection including a number of media, such as photography, sculpture, film, performance and paintings that were made during residences in Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, Thailand, Vietnam and the UK. The programs were funded by the Wellcome Trust and has resulted in a very moving collection of pieces.
Cultural context has a significant impact on health in varying cities and countries and this exhibition really showcases the differences. From the spread of diseases from animals to people, to the continued HIV epidemic in Africa, this is a wonderful insight into the reality of global health.
As someone who studied Science at University, this exhibition is very exciting to me. Many people fall into the mindset that holidays and travel should be purely for relaxation and light hearted fun. While I agree that is important, some of my most moving experiences overseas have happened in educational buildings. I saw both The Human Body Exhibition in Prague, and the War Remnants museum in Ho Chi Ming city, which both left me speechless, although for different reasons.
If you’re heading to London or living there now, make sure you set aside a little time to browse this interesting collection. Foreign Bodies, Common Ground is on show at Wellcome Collection, see their site for more information on opening hours and location.
