Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
an exhibition of physics and chemistry be brought to life so that the audience is im-
mersed, engaged, curious, excited and educated by the experience?
The subject matter of physics and chemistry is quite often a turn-offfor many people,
so the way the story was told within the exhibition had to be inventive. The space
the designers were dealing with was also important and offered considerable oppor-
tunities; it was 2,415 square metres (26,000 square feet) with a gallery height of 20m
(65ft). This space allowed the designers to create exhibits at a large scale. These were
both dynamic and functional, acting as signposts to different areas of the exhibition,
breaking up the space and creating focal points that draw the audience into the exhib-
its. They attracted attention first, then offered the opportunity for interaction, discov-
ery and exploration.
The exhibition places the audience at the centre of the experience. It offers the op-
portunity for hands-on experimentation, investigating the science behind the phenom-
ena through state-of-the-art interactive media used within the exhibition. Evidence
Design explain that, 'By doing as well as seeing, visitors find themselves immersed in
the adventure of experimental science and in the imaginative and creative processes
of scientists. Science Storms aims to inspire a new generation of scientists through
the synthesis of compelling interactive exhibits, environmental media and strong con-
textual storytelling.'
Creating Science Storms
Challenge
To re-envision the existing presentation of physics and chemistry to achieve MSI's
core mission: to inspire and motivate our children to achieve their full potential in the
fields of science, technology, medicine and engineering.
Solution
To transform the heart of the museum into a wondrous laboratory where visitors in-
teract with dynamic, large-scale experiments that explore earth's most powerful phe-
nomena - tornadoes, lightning, fire, tsunamis, sunlight, avalanches and atoms in mo-
tion - and then, through hands-on experimentation and interactive media, investigate
the science behind nature's forces.
Approach
In 2003 the design team led a multidisciplinary task force to explore new ways to
communicate 'essential science' to the public, define MSI's role in science education,
and describe a compelling visitor experience. The group moved past driving the ex-
