Beginning with the idea that the alteration of consciousness is a universal human impulse, Wellcome Collection's new exhibition, High Society takes a look at the history of drug taking across the continents. Starting with their plant origins and ending at the development of the synthetic chemicals feeding the international drug market today, the exhibition takes you on a fascinating trip through drug use, be it recreational, experimental, religious or medical.
Serving as a reminder of how the the opium trade was a crucial factor in the rise of the British Empire, how the opium dens of the East End became a familiar sight to Victorian London and how writers and artists across UK and Europe were getting smashed throughout the 19th century on various concoctions, including sweet green hash jam, the show is stimulating in itself.