In 1977, Gunther von Hagens invented plastination, allowing human bodies to be preserved for years. Decades later, the technique produced Body Worlds, sparking worldwide fascination and debate over displaying human remains

In 1977, Gunther von Hagens created a technique that changed the way human anatomy could be displayed. Known as plastination, the method preserved human bodies by replacing their natural fluids with polymers. Decades later, the technique became the foundation of “BODY WORLDS,” a traveling exhibition of real human bodies that attracted millions of visitors while also provoking intense debate over the display of human remains.

Now, von Hagens, who died in July at 81 after a cerebral hemorrhage and years of living with Parkinson’s disease, has become part of the work himself. At his request, his own body will be plastinated, as per The Guardian.