The Springfield Museums presents Leonardo’s Lab at the Springfield Science Museum January 21-April 23, 2023. Organized by Carnegie Science Center (Pittsburgh)and presented by Sciencenter (Ithaca), this exhibition offers young artists and inventors a chance to immerse themselves in the mind of Leonardo DaVinci, the original ‘Renaissance Man.’ They will explore all the fascinating facets of his work across multiple disciplines in very hands-on ways, as they build, sketch, test and design via activities tied to his era and ideas.
“For generations we’ve been inspired by the artwork and invention of Leonardo da Vinci,” said Jenny Powers, Director of the Springfield Science Museum. “My hope is that children and families will connect to his legacy and create their own artwork, inventions, and open their minds to new kinds of critical and creative thinking!”
Children and adults both will find the brain challenges, opportunities for creative expression, and intriguing ideas appealing. Visitors can recreate Leonardo’s amazing tool-and-hardware-free interlocking bridge and assemble an air-powered flying ‘copter, making changes to improve the aerodynamics. Inspired by Leonardo’s reverse-print method, try your hand –literally! –at writing backwards so it seems correct when viewed in a mirror. Before leaving the exhibit, put your own spin on his most famous work, The Mona Lisa, using different art techniques to create a masterpiece.
Exhibit Opening Celebration: Leonardo’s Lab
On Saturday, January 21, from 10 am to 5 pm, the Museums present a Family Fun program to celebrate the opening of Leonardo’s Lab. Activities are free with Museums admission.
Live Animal Encounter, 11 am-2 pm
Leonardo da Vinci created many sketches of animals. Come meet some of the animals that call the Museums home.
Inventor Trivia 11 am-3 pm
Spin the wheel and test your knowledge of inventors and inventions throughout history.
Stick Bridges, 11 am-3 pm
How strong can you build a bridge using only the materials provided?
Fascinating Fossils, 11 am-3 pm
Did you know Leonardo da Vinci studied fossils? Come learn about how fossils are classified.
Spectacular Sfumato, 12-4 pm
Learn about sfumato, an art technique Leonardo da Vinci used, then give it a try.
Leonardo’s Lab was developed by Carnegie Science Center (Pittsburgh, Pa.) and produced in partnership with the Sciencecenter (Ithaca, NY.).