NMNS "3D Anti-Drug with Masterpieces" (名畫3D反毒) Special Exhibition

On the eve of the summer vacation, the National Museum of Natural Science (NMNS) launched the "3D Anti-Drug with Masterpieces" (名畫3D反毒) Special Exhibition in the 2nd-floor corridor of the Human Cultures Hall. Based on classic Western paintings and Japanese Ukiyo-e, it uses the innovative method of 3D stereoscopic adaptation to vividly depict the changes in the appearance of characters after drug use. Through a strong visual experience, it guides the audience to deeply realize the destruction of the body and mind by drugs.

The special exhibition integrates various 3D technologies, including lenticular 3D, red-blue 3D, color parallax 3D, UV direct-jet 3D images, etc. The exhibits in the "Brain Damage Reverse Perspective Display Room" further allow the public to intuitively feel the impact of drugs on the brain through the visual illusion of reverse perspective, creating an immersive anti-drug learning experience.

Among the classic masterpieces reinterpreted in the special exhibition, "Mona Lisa Meets Heroin" shows the appearance after the mysterious smile is eroded by drugs, with pupil constriction, haggard face, and skin lesions; "Young Woman Meets Methamphetamine" presents facial thinning, dark circles, and skin ulcers caused by drug use; the portrait of Shakespeare is adapted into holding marijuana, with eyes out of focus and bloodshot, vividly depicting the intoxicated state after drug use.

Extending to the field of Ukiyo-e, "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" shows the excitement and stimulation effects of central nervous system stimulants on the brain; "Sea of Moonlight" depicts the impact of central nervous system depressants on the brain, turning from dizziness and relaxation to sleepiness; "Kuwana: The Story of Sailor Tokuzo" shows the changes in the brain caused by central nervous system hallucinogens, inducing hallucinations from altered consciousness; and in the painting "Takashima Hisa Meets Amphetamine Weight Loss Pills," one of the three beauties of Edo during the Kansei period, has a thin face, obvious dark circles, and poor complexion due to using drugs for weight loss, showing the destruction of beauty and health by drug use.

There is only a fine line between drugs and medicine. Addictive drugs are classified as controlled drugs. Controlled drugs prescribed by doctors for legal medical purposes are medicines, while controlled drugs used for non-medical purposes or abused are illegal drugs. According to the "Statute for Prevention of Drug Hazards," any narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances with addictive, abusive, and socially harmful properties fall under the category of illegal drugs. Taking drugs will not only cause serious damage to health but may also lead to broken families and ruined lives.

Art can cross the boundaries of age and language and is a powerful medium for prompting social attention to important issues. The "3D Anti-Drug with Masterpieces Special Exhibition" is on display in the 2nd-floor corridor display area of the Human Cultures Hall until April 5, 2026. Everyone is invited to participate in this exhibition that integrates artistic creativity and anti-drug education, awakening the cherishing and protection of a healthy life.