idea Museum is found in heart of downtown Mesa
Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Mesa City Hall officials are announcing the idea Museum, 150 W. Pepper Place in downtown Mesa, is announcing the beloved children’s museum will reopen Friday, Dec. 13.
Formerly known as the i.d.e.a. Museum, Mesa City Hall officials report the three-month closure was planned in an effort to revitalize the name, brand and facilities of the idea Museum, which stands for imagination, design, experience and art.
During the closure, the museum underwent transformations including the addition of public art installations such as a mural and three interactive pinwheels for patrons to enjoy.
Major construction projects were also completed, City Hall officials report, including converting the former administration office into a space for guests, which is set to open in early 2025.
Visitors can now experience a freshly painted facility, new flooring, updated activities and an all-new exhibition, officials there say.
As part of its reopening, idea Museum is unveiling a brand-new exhibition, JoyRide: Art on Wheels, which is a hands-on, immersive experience celebrating the mechanics, artistry and creativity of wheels in all forms.
From lowriders to tricked-out wheelchairs, this exhibition offers a fun-filled exploration designed to spark curiosity, idea Museum officials tell the Digital Free Press.
Highlights of JoyRide: Art on Wheels include:
- Highlights of JoyRide: Art on Wheels include:
- Pinstripe a Lowrider: Learn the art of pinstriping as you add your personal touch to a lowrider.
- Build Your Dream Skatepark: Create ramps, rails and more, using toy-sized skateboards to design the ultimate skatepark.
- Community Art Project: Contribute to a collaborative weaving installation using bike wheels.
- Truck Bed Reading Nook: Relax and unwind in a cozy nook nestled inside the bed of a 1980s Ford truck.
- LEGO Printing Press: Use LEGOs to design and print your own creative masterpieces.
- The exhibition is included with regular museum admission and memberships. Google Fiber is the presenting sponsor, with additional support provided by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, which receives funding from the state of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as the idea Museum Foundation.
Learn more at ideamuseum.org.
