Permanent exhibition
Brains
It is one of the most complex structures that nature has ever created. It develops curiosity, creativity, consciousness and emotions: the human brain. The new permanent exhibition provides an insight into this extraordinary, still not fully understood organ that defines us as individuals.
One of the highlight exhibits is a 3D print of the brain of Frankfurt football legend Karl-Heinz ‘Charly’ Körbel. Complex perceptual processes can be experienced through football. Central functions of our thinking apparatus, the perception of animals and the evolution of brains can also be experienced in a playful way and with the help of augmented reality.
Contemporary media and computer artist Tim Berresheim has designed an unusual exhibition display as a spatial sculpture.
A cooperation project of the non-profit Hertie Foundation and the Senckenberg Society for Nature Research.
The exhibition ‘Brains’ can be seen at the Senckenberg Nature Museum Frankfurt from 26 March 2025. Further information on opening hours and ticket bookings can be found here.
Visitors to the exhibition learn how the brain is structured and what functions it performs. Vivid models and animations deepen the understanding of how the different areas of the brain interact. Displays and exhibits explain how the cerebral hemispheres control our unique cognitive abilities such as language and creativity, while the cerebellum is responsible for motor skills and balance. The brain stem, as the “life center”, is responsible for basic bodily functions such as breathing and heartbeat.
Visitors can experience the brain in action in a virtual stadium. They slip into the role of Charly Körbel and interact with an avatar of the footballer on the pitch. “Here you can understand what happens in a player’s brain when he kicks a ball, hears the cheers of the crowd or the referee whistles,” says curator Adela Kutschke and adds: ”This interactive station illustrates how perception, emotions and reactions are linked in the brain.”
The exhibition also sheds light on how the brain changes over the course of a lifetime – from infancy to old age. It shows how the brain learns, develops and adapts to new challenges in the early years. A large-format connectome model visualizes the complexity of the neuronal connections that the human brain continues to develop and refine over time.
Artist Tim Berresheim interprets the theme of brains with large wall designs, exhibition mascots and digitized and rematerialized memorabilia from Charly Körbel’s soccer career. “The creative approach places the complexity of the topic of “brains” in a familiar context. Charly Körbel’s personal story becomes a narrative element that makes scientific content accessible,” explains the artist, adding: ”This combination of science and art creates a unique space for reflection and discussion about the brain and its significance.”
