Exhibitions Inspiration Uncategorized

Forensics: The Anatomy of Crime

It’s cool, free, and the closest experience to a proper crime scene investigation that you can (legally) get. A few years ago, when I was researching the impact of death in the media for my Ph.D. project, Forensics: The Anatomy of Crime would have been a gold mine, given the fact that it provides really invaluable insights and avoids the morbidity that usually surrounds such topics.

Maggots from the bodies of Ruxton’s victims, Moffat murders: The Trustees of the Natural History Museum.

On display at the Wellcome Collection until 21 June, the exhibition is focused on a set of areas that span forensic medicine by considering the science behind violent crimes. The investigative process tries to shed light on death by leveraging the meticulous procedures on the crime scene, the scientific methods behind the closed doors of laboratories and autopsy rooms, and the evidences showcased in the courtroom.

The Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death: © Image courtesy of Corinne Botz and Benrubi Gallery.

I have attended Forensics a few weeks ago and I can guarantee that this is a must-see for everyone interested in procedural, people addicted to the legend of the infamous Jack the Ripper or passionate about Weegee’s street photography, and all the die-hard fans of the TV series Bones and the C.S.I. franchise.

Top tip: although it might seem a bit creepy, don’t miss the chance to listen to the sounds of a real autopsy.