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CONTRAPTIONS! |
Art &
Science Combine in "Contraptions!" Our new
changing exhibit is open now! |
 A contraption is often defined as “a device more
ingenious than practical.” Contraptions! — the newest
exhibit at ECHO — is a unique fusion of art and science,
where visitors can experience an interactive, Rube
Goldberg-esque world of gadgets, gizmos, doodads, and
whatchamacallits: contraptions that are often the roots
of invention. The exhibit, opening November 14, features
the innovative, folk art-like works of Clifford Wagner
from Science Interactives, and futuristic creations from
Vermont artists Janet Van Fleet and Dave Blumenthal.
Contraptions! is sponsored by Conant Metal & Light, Inc.
ECHO
Executive Director Phelan Fretz says: ”With its eclectic mix of
art and innovation, Contraptions! is sure to delight, educate,
and inspire young-and-old alike.” Among a dizzying array of
exhibit experiences, Contraptions! visitors will encounter…
- The Drum Machine: Conduct a huge percussion ensemble
with six rows of instruments and 96 switches.
- TopoMaker: Transform 3-D objects into topographs with
this state-of-the-art work by Dave Blumenthal of Montpelier,
VT.
- Berserko Ball Bouncer: Turn a crank and motorized wheels
bounce balls at super speed inside a “B”-shaped box. When
you change the angle and speed, you change the way the balls
bounce. Do you know why?
- Disc Dance: Explore light and motion in this
eye-catching work by acclaimed artist Janet Van Fleet, of
Cabot, VT.
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As
with all ECHO exhibits, visitors can deepen their experience
through hands-on educational programs for all ages, such as
constructing contraptions, making thaumatropes — optical devices
that melds two images into one — and learning more about simple
machines through interactive experiments. Additional
Contraptions!-related programming includes speakers,
competitions, and public events that celebrate the ingenuity of
our creative minds.
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 Components of this exhibit installation were produced by the
Environmental Exhibit Collaborative (EEC!): a group of four
science centers — including ECHO — and children’s museums, in
partnership with local artists. EEC! exhibits are made possible
by major support from Jane’s Trust, with additional support
provided by the Cabot Family Charitable Trust and IBM.
”Contraptions A to Z” was designed by Clifford Wagner Scientific Interactives Inc. |
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Exhibit sponsored by
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Newspaper sponsor
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Television sponsor
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1.802.864.1848
