Special Exhibition of Natural Heritage Featuring Taxidermy Once Used as Criminal Evidence
A Variety of Programs Offered for Winter Vacation
Animal taxidermy specimens that were once nearly left to decay as criminal evidence in a smuggler's warehouse are returning to the classroom. Tiger skins and ivory, once victims of greed, have now become vivid records that testify to the value of nature.
The National Heritage Administration announced on December 22 that it will hold a special exhibition on natural heritage, "Taxidermy, Recording Time," at the Natural Monument Center in Seo-gu, Daejeon, until May 31 next year. The main exhibits are about thirty animal specimens donated to the center by Lee Hyunjae, Mayor of Hanam. The exhibition highlights the process of shedding the stigma of being illegal collections and being reborn as "assets" with academic value.
The exhibition begins with life and progresses to warnings and resolutions. After observing the ecology of birds and mammals in the introduction, visitors soon confront the scars left by human greed. The tragic state of threatened heritage items such as tiger and leopard skins and water buffalo horns underscores the urgent need for protection. The final section is an interactive space where visitors can pledge to become "guardians of animal heritage" and leave their own messages.
To mark the winter vacation, the National Heritage Administration has prepared a variety of tailored programs. Until December 28, the first 1,400 children who complete the stamp tour or certify a photo of the natural heritage tree inside the exhibition hall will receive souvenirs. Starting in January next year, children will also have the opportunity to serve as docents and explain the value of heritage from their own perspective to their peers.
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