Third-graders from Josiah Harris Elementary School in Amherst excitedly maneuver the little bricks into their own creations at the Great Lakes Science Center’s new Lego exhibit.
“We frequently are asked when we will have the next Lego exhibition, so we are always looking for new Lego-related experiences for our guests,” says Kirsten Ellenbogen, Great Lakes Science Center President and CEO. “The exhibits we’ve developed with them make it possible for you to use Lego bricks to build and test simple machines, other tools, and robots in a whole new way.”
“Build It! Engineering fun, one brick at a time,” presented by ArcelorMittal, has three hands-on phases and takes place through Sept. 4.
This month and through May 14, families can explore the first phase, “Play It,” which features castle-themed activities, including a virtual catapult and a giant castle with secret passageways. Master builders can design their own castles and courtyards. The exhibit also features educational displays about the real medieval era.
Kids can create their own mini “Lego Movie” with the stop-motion animation station, where they learn how to film the pieces one click at a time. Michael Hickox from MichaelHickoxFilms, a YouTube sensation who makes Lego stop-motion animations, partnered with the exhibit.
The mosaics on display, which were created by local Lego artist and math teacher Arthur Gugick, depict famous images and people, such as John Lennon.
“He is an extraordinary artist and math educator and his work has been a huge inspiration to us over the years,” Ellenbogen says. “His artwork in ‘Build It!’ has wowed our guests and the exhibits he created are great examples of how to make math fun for every age.”
Kids also can get inspired and make their own mosaics, which are displayed daily.
For more information, visit greatscience.com.