Mid-America Science Museum unveils donor appreciation wall
Mid-America Science Museum unveiled its new donor appreciation wall during its monthly Science Society event on June 8.
The donor wall was designed and built by the museum staff to be a one-of-a-kind exhibit in addition to a donor recognition piece. The design incorporates a dynamic use of operating gears and parts that function together collaboratively reflecting the museum’s mission to foster an interest in science, technology, engineering and math.
Niles Ellis, director of exhibition design, and Lori Arnold, design technician, worked for eight weeks gathering materials and creating a network of elements that will draw visitors in for a closer look.
“The inner workings have a steam punk science feel to them and we designed the project using repurposed wood and other materials,” Ellis said in a news release. “At one point during the fabrication, we were looking for a very large iron gear to use in the project, but when we realized it would be too heavy to incorporate, we made one out of an old wooden door. It is indistinguishable from the real thing.” A small demonstration of the fabrication accompanies the donor wall.
The wall is a mobile piece that will be on permanent display and will recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations that have donated $500 or more to the museum each year. “We wanted to show our sincere appreciation to everyone who has supported the museum this year and we wanted to do it in a way that would be unique to the museum,” said Diane LaFollette, executive director of Mid-America Science Museum. “We are grateful for each of our donors and I am proud of our talented staff that created such a wonderful piece.”
Currently, the donor wall is on display in the museum lobby and can be seen during regular business hours. There are still opportunities for donors to have their names added to the wall as it’s showcased throughout the museum.
Call 767-3461, ext. 114, or email Harmony Morrissey at harmonym@midamericamuseum.org for more information on how to support the museum.