The Power of Poison
![In a walkthrough diorama of a rainforest, a spider and red plant are magnified 3x larger than life](/var/ezflow_site/storage/images/media/amnh/images/global-business-development/gbd-hero-images/traveling-exhibitions/the-power-of-poison-traveling-exhibition-2460-1384/3911288-1-eng-US/the-power-of-poison-traveling-exhibition-2460-1384_wideexact_2460.jpg 2460w,/var/ezflow_site/storage/images/media/amnh/images/global-business-development/gbd-hero-images/traveling-exhibitions/the-power-of-poison-traveling-exhibition-2460-1384/3911288-1-eng-US/the-power-of-poison-traveling-exhibition-2460-1384_wideexact_1230.jpg 1230w,/var/ezflow_site/storage/images/media/amnh/images/global-business-development/gbd-hero-images/traveling-exhibitions/the-power-of-poison-traveling-exhibition-2460-1384/3911288-1-eng-US/the-power-of-poison-traveling-exhibition-2460-1384_wideexact_800.jpg 800w,/var/ezflow_site/storage/images/media/amnh/images/global-business-development/gbd-hero-images/traveling-exhibitions/the-power-of-poison-traveling-exhibition-2460-1384/3911288-1-eng-US/the-power-of-poison-traveling-exhibition-2460-1384_wideexact_400.jpg 400w)
Whether as a defense against predators, a source of magical strength, a lethal weapon, or a lifesaving medical treatment, the story of poison is surprising at every turn.
Exhibition topics include:
- The science of poisons, toxins, and venoms
- Coevolution
- Toxins as medicine
- Forensic science
- Stories of poison from legend, literature, and popular culture
- Historical villains and victims
Highlights
This popular traveling exhibition features theatrical dioramas, models, objects, interactive modules, optional live animals, and engaging media presentations.
Wander through an immersive diorama of Colombia’s Chocó Forest, turn the virtual pages of an "enchanted" book to learn about toxic plants, investigate evidence to solve poisoning mysteries at digital interactive stations, and hear dramatic stories of poisonings and forensic detection in a theater presentation.
D. Finnin/© AMNH
D. Finnin/© AMNH
R. Mickens/© AMNH
D. Finnin/© AMNH
R. Mickens/© AMNH
D. Finnin/© AMNH
R. Mickens/© AMNH
D. Finnin/© AMNH
Key Questions
- What is poison?
- Where are poisons found?
- How do poisons work?
- What is the history of poisons in society?
- How do we use poisons for good?
Reviews
"...one of the most theatrical exhibitions the museum has mounted."
− The New York Times
"...exquisitely designed."
− Gizmodo
"...thoroughly modern."
− Fast Company
Request More Information
Contact us to request availability for hosting this traveling exhibition.
![Cover of the educator's guide to the exhibition The Power of Poison, including images of a snake, passionflower, drops of mercury, and witches at a cauldron](/var/ezflow_site/storage/images/media/amnh/files/learn-and-teach/educator-guides-pdf-files-folder/poison-ed-guide/poison_edguide_cover/1098846-1-eng-US/poison_edguide_cover_full_495.jpg 100w,/var/ezflow_site/storage/images/media/amnh/files/learn-and-teach/educator-guides-pdf-files-folder/poison-ed-guide/poison_edguide_cover/1098846-1-eng-US/poison_edguide_cover_full_285.jpg 100w)
Educator’s Guide
The Power of Poison is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (amnh.org).