Burlesque Brain

A large model used to demonstrate the skull and meninges protecting the brain. Useful in big lecture theatres for first year anatomy teaching and for public demonstrations. The materials used are tactile and each is a metaphor for the function of a particular layer

• Skull - several hard plates that interlock
• Dura mater - tough and flexible
• Arachnoid mater - complex web-work with large blood vessels
• Pia mater - delicate and fitting close to the brain

Click to enlarge images of Dr Jasoni demonstrating the Burlesque Brain:

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Production Information

This model was made as a one-off from the inside out. The very simple brain shape was carved from a large block of expanding foam, covered with a resin shell, painted and sealed.

Creators: Dr Christine Jasoni (initial idea and academic support), Fieke Neuman (sculpting, painting, patterns and sewing), Shane Soal (expanding foam, resin, painting), Howard Haugh (design and construction of the aluminium components), Alex Witherow (wooden base of carry case). All from Department of Anatomy, University of Otago except for Mr Haugh.

Keywords: Teaching, Anatomy, Neuroanatomy, Meninges, Skull, Dura, Arachnoid, Pia, Brain, Science, Biology

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