World Anatomy Day Event: Bits & Bobs: The Anatomy of Sex
Dates
Thursday 15 October
Visitor information
Times
6-9pm (drop-in any time between these hours)
Price
Free. Drop in.
Suitable for ages 16+
Need to know
At this event, you'll be able to learn about human anatomy with medical experts, as well as the social and cultural history and perceptions of sex, gender and related topics with experts from the social sciences and humanities.
We're focusing on building knowledge of anatomy and discussing researcher's expertise in their subject areas. We expect and welcome open, respectful discussions about gender and related topics.
We want all people to feel included and able to attend.
About
Come and explore the structure, function, development, history and cultural significance of the bits and bobs that make up our genitourinary and pelvic anatomy! Learn more and ask your burning questions, with experts based at Newcastle University, in a fun, relaxed and inclusive environment. We ran this event in 2022, and now we are back bigger and better than ever.
Scattered around the exhibits of the Great North Museum: Hancock, you will find a range of exciting and interactive stations and activities to take part in, in celebration of World Anatomy Day on 15th October. This year, we will be repeating some highlights from previous years, but we are also excited to be bringing in experts from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, to help us explore the wider cultural and social perceptions of sex.
Here’s a flavour of what you can expect…
X and Y: Sex and Why? Jump into the world of developmental anatomy – what shapes our internal and external anatomy. Just as we are different on the outside, we are different on the inside.
Menstruation Station: Follow the pathway of a human egg cell and learn about the structures it will pass through on its way to fertilisation or menstruation.
Plus:
Take the journey of a sperm through the development of seminal fluid. Learn about the many elements that equip the sperm for its arduous journey after leaving the body.
Explore the history of how women’s sexual desire and pleasure have been represented in fiction, history, film and television.
Explore the hidden world of UK swinger clubs. Rather than sensationalising swinging, this installation invites you to reflect on the ways sexuality is experienced, negotiated and understood in everyday life.
Explore Renaissance depictions of sex, by re-arranging the lines of an erotic poem, just like its first readers once did.
…and many more!
The ‘Anatomy of Sex’ is a broad and complex topic. Sadly, we won’t be able to cover every bit and every bob in lots of detail during one event (though we will try our very best!), but we hope you find lots to learn about and enjoy!
