Smithsonian's Exploring Human Origins Exhibit Opens May 9 at Library Center
On Monday, the Library Center unveils a major exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution that looks at the latest scientific discoveries about human origins – what we know so far about how we developed, and how we know it.
The national touring exhibit is called Exploring Human Origins – What Does It Mean To Be Human? It will be at the library through June 2. The grant-funded exhibit is also bringing the scientists who helped create it. Throughout the month, they and several Missouri State University and Drury University scientists who have helped guide this project will give talks, serve on panels and lead public discussions related to the exhibit. Their goal, among other things, is to provide context for the images and science that visitors will experience.
It’s important to note that the exhibit focuses only on the latest scientific research and does not attempt to reflect the many religious perspectives about early man. However, the scientists appreciate the personal importance of those religious perspectives. They, and the exhibit, intend to create an environment that encourages a respectful dialogue on human origins.
What will you see? A 1,200-square-foot display with panels, interactive kiosks, media presentations 3-D skull casts. You will also be invited to ponder our connection to all of life on Earth and the uniqueness of our species through upcoming programs. The full schedule is available in exhibit programs, Bookends and online at thelibrary.org/exploringhumanorigins.
At 7 p.m. May 9 in the Library Center auditorium, Dr. Rick Potts, paleoanthropologist and curator of the traveling exhibit, will talk about how fossils, archeological remains and genetic studies shed light on our connection with the natural world.
At 6:30 p.m. May 10 in the Library Center auditorium, a panel with the Smithsonian scientists will invite a community conversation about each other’s perspectives about the exhibit. A complimentary meal will be served first; call 882-0714 for meal reservations.
The Basics of Evolutionary Science, with MSU’s Suzanne Walker-Pacheco and Drury’s Kevin Jansen is planned 7-9 p.m. May 12 in the Library Center auditorium.
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