idea Museum is unveiling its brand-new space, the idea Lab, on Sat., Mar. 1 during its first Family Free Day, an initiative supported by Meta that allows the museum to hold free admission days and evenings for the community. The idea Lab is also supported by Meta and will be a maker space that merges art and technology and encourages visitors to explore a creative, technological and resourceful world.
“The idea Lab represents a bold step forward in how we inspire creativity and exploration. By merging art, hands-on engagement and technology, this space invites children to experiment, problem-solve and bring their ideas to life in new and exciting ways. It’s designed to spark curiosity, encourage hands-on discovery and cultivate critical thinking skills that will shape future innovators. We’re thrilled to see the community come together to support and engage with this transformative space, making it a hub for imagination and learning.”
Highlights of the idea Lab include:
- Be your own lighting and sound technician in our tree forest and take selfies on the screens to have your face appear on our Arizona-native animals lounging in the trees – an owl, a bat and a bobcat.
- Build a Bug Adventure: Create your own bug masterpiece by choosing your 3D printed bug heads, bodies and legs to design a unique bug that can be magnetically mounted throughout the space.
- Brick Beats: Make your own music by building Lego’s of varying size and color on a plate. When cranked, the plate moves across a camera, turning your creation into sounds!
- Upcycle Challenge: Using recycled materials, build different creations based on the prompt or what comes to mind.
“At Meta, we’re focused on building the future of human connection and the technology that makes it possible. That journey starts here, by inspiring the next generation of creative thinkers,” said David Williams, community development manager for Meta’s data center in Mesa. “We’re proud to call Mesa home and support opportunities for families to enjoy these hands-on, immersive experiences together.”
Along with interactive activities and programming, the idea Lab will feature multiple art pieces by local artists. Features include six larger than life custom animal sculptures made of recycled materials, including a 25-foot snake by Koryn Woodward Wasson and Roy Wasson Valle. There are also six aluminum clouds suspending 1000 cast glass cranes on the ceiling by Jennifer Caldwell and Jason Chakravarty.
In addition to being the title sponsor of the idea Lab, Meta is sponsoring Family Free Days to enhance accessibility at idea Museum. Their contribution expands free admission days and free admission evening hours starting Mar. 1, ensuring families facing financial and other constraints can equally partake in the museum’s offerings.
Additionally, the Project Room in the “JoyRide: Art on Wheels” exhibition will also open on Mar. 1. The space titled “Spectral Heart” has been created by Tucson-based artist Christina Thomas and is an immersive experience that makes it feel like you are walking into a three-dimensional painting of translucent rainbows and sparkling crystalline forms. The “JoyRide: Art on Wheels” exhibition’s presenting sponsor is Google Fiber, with additional support provided by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, which receives funding from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as the idea Museum Foundation.
The idea Lab and “Spectral Heart” are included in regular museum admission and memberships.
The idea Museum expresses immense gratitude to the supporters who have made this initial phase of renovation possible and have helped propel the next phase forward, which is already underway. Their generosity has played a vital role in shaping idea Museum which will continue serving families and children for years to come. Notable contributors include:
Michael and Debby Elliott
Thomas Galvin, Maricopa County Supervisor
Mr. Andrew C.G. & Dr. Ruth Tan Lim
Giles W. and Elise G. Mead Foundation
Meta
Dr. Ralph V. & Marilyn T. Wilson Family
Whiteman Foundation
ABOUT IDEA MUSEUM
idea Museum is owned and operated by the City of Mesa with support from the idea Museum Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. Located in the heart of Downtown Mesa, the Museum offers interactive art exhibitions and engaging STEAM activities designed to foster creativity, curiosity and connection, building a vibrant community where children can thrive. For more information, visit ideamuseum.org.