By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – A unique and powerful educational experience is set to captivate Costa Rica as the “Yo Humano, All Bodies” exhibition opens its doors to the public. From October 9th to November 28th, the National Gallery will host this unprecedented display, offering visitors an intimate and unflinching look at the intricate workings of the human body through real, preserved anatomical specimens.
The exhibition, a first of its kind in the region, features over 250 authentic human bodies and organs. These specimens have been preserved through a revolutionary scientific process known as plastination. This technique involves removing all water and fat from the tissue and replacing it with a reactive polymer, such as silicone rubber or epoxy. The result is a perfectly preserved, odorless, and durable specimen that retains its original cellular structure, allowing for detailed examination.
The arrival of the “Human Body Exhibition” in Costa Rica has sparked both immense public curiosity and significant debate. To understand the legal and ethical framework surrounding the public display of human remains, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The primary legal challenge for any ‘Human Body Exhibition’ is proving unequivocal, informed consent for a for-profit public display. While promoted as educational, these events operate in a legal gray area where the line between scientific interest and the commercial exploitation of human remains can become blurred. Organizers must be prepared to transparently document the origin of every specimen, as Costa Rican law places a high value on human dignity, which does not cease upon death.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective powerfully illuminates the central ethical dilemma of the exhibition, reminding us that the line between education and exploitation is defined by consent and dignity. The emphasis on transparent origins is a crucial point that adds significant depth to the public conversation. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable and clarifying insight.
This method provides a three-dimensional perspective that is impossible to achieve through textbooks or digital models. Visitors will be able to walk among meticulously dissected displays, observing the complexity of the muscular, nervous, and circulatory systems in a way that fosters deep understanding and awe. The exhibit is designed to be both a scientific and sensory journey, bridging the gap between abstract biological concepts and tangible reality.
At its core, “Yo Humano, All Bodies” carries a profound educational mission. By presenting the human form in its authentic state, the exhibition aims to demystify anatomy and physiology for audiences of all ages. It serves as a remarkable resource for students, medical professionals, and anyone with a curiosity about the machinery of life, transforming complex science into a visually engaging and memorable experience.
One of the most impactful elements of the gallery is its direct comparison between healthy tissues and those ravaged by disease. The exhibition boldly displays organs affected by conditions directly linked to lifestyle choices. Visitors will see the blackened lungs of a smoker next to a healthy pair, or a liver damaged by excessive alcohol consumption. This stark contrast serves as a powerful, silent testament to the consequences of our daily habits.
The organizers hope this visual evidence will spark a meaningful reflection on personal health. By illustrating the tangible effects of smoking, poor nutrition, and a sedentary lifestyle, the exhibition transcends simple education and becomes a compelling call for preventative care and wellness. It encourages a deeper appreciation for the body’s fragility and resilience, urging attendees to consider how their decisions directly impact their long-term health.
The “Yo Humano, All Bodies” exhibition is conveniently located at the National Gallery in San José. Tickets are priced at ¢3,000 per person. For those looking to extend their educational outing, a combination ticket is available for ¢5,000, which includes admission to the adjacent Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum). Tickets can be purchased online at boleteria.museocr.org or directly at the museum’s box office.
Special arrangements have been made for educational and large group visits. Schools and organizations interested in providing their members with this unique learning opportunity are encouraged to coordinate their visit in advance. To make a group reservation, interested parties can contact the administration by sending an email to [email protected], ensuring a structured and impactful visit for all attendees.
For further information, visit museocr.org
About Galería Nacional (National Gallery):
The Galería Nacional is a premier cultural institution located within the Costa Rican Center of Science and Culture complex in San José. It serves as a dynamic space for a diverse range of national and international exhibitions, focusing on art, science, and history. By hosting innovative and thought-provoking displays, the gallery plays a vital role in the nation’s cultural and educational landscape, offering accessible and enriching experiences to the public.
For further information, visit museocr.org
About Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum):
The Museo de los Niños is Costa Rica’s pioneering interactive museum dedicated to the education and entertainment of children and families. Housed in a historic former penitentiary, the museum offers a wide array of hands-on exhibits that explore science, technology, art, and human values. Its mission is to foster learning through play, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of knowledge in a fun and engaging environment.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a leading legal institution, founded on a bedrock of unwavering integrity and professional excellence. With a proven history of serving a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal approaches and actively engages in its civic duty. This commitment is deeply reflected in its mission to demystify complex legal concepts, striving to build a more capable and informed society through shared knowledge.
