Journey through the Brain
We have decided to 'enter' the brain through three of its most important and representative activities - Art, Music and Language. These 'portals' will lead visitors through the functions of the brain and their neural infrastructure, from sensation and perception (seeing a face, hearing a melody, reading or hearing a word) through memory, emotions and understanding, to behaviour (drawing a portrait, playing a tune, writing or talking) and of course the Self - who are we? We shall also relate to brain malfunctions such as Alzheimer's, dyslexia and amnesia, and their treatment - malfunctions that are often tragic but sometimes offer fascinating insights into the 'normal' workings of the brain. We shall create a dialogue with visitors in particular about ethical problems that are beginning to emerge from brain research, and will develop opportunities for visitors to participate in research.
This main exhibition of interactive exhibits will be accompanied by:
- a variety of activities, including demonstrations, lectures and films
- an interactive website with background information that broadens and deepens the messages of the exhibition.
- 'satellite' exhibitions that will elaborate on specific aspects of the brain - two such satellites already exist, one on 'Illusions' and the second, called 'Neuroscapes', a display of beautiful images of neurons and neural networks assembled by the Science Museum in Barcelona. Other satellites, to be developed as time and funding allow, may include the characteristics and infrastructure of rational and emotional thinking, empathy, intuition and gender differences, and/or evolution and animal brains.