The i.d.e.a. Museum will stay open until 6 p.m. on Fridays starting July 7. The additional hours are a part the enhancements that began this spring to provide more hands-on activities and creative, skill-building experiences for busy families.
Recent additions to the museum include:
Increasing drop-in programs, such as STEAM Labs and Skill Builders
Creating a touch-screen game Recycle Fun for the museum's Recyclery, sponsored by City of Mesa's Department of Environmental Management and Sustainability
Expanding the Build It space with more Rigamajig parts, building materials and a magnetic chain-reaction wall to offer more design experiences
Adding the Big Pink Chair - a part of the Downtown Mesa Sculpture Tour - created by Mesa artist Mary Consie and donated by Lyn and Peggy Lynch
Offering special parents night out events (Monsters in the Museum is July 28)
"Parents are busy and want to make the most of their time with their child," said i.d.e.a. Museum Executive Director Sunnee O'Rork. "We started this endeavor looking for ways to add value to our visitor's experience. Parents were clear they wanted more time in the museum."
The i.d.e.a. Museum is starting with expanded Friday hours, based on responses to a recent survey of both members and guests. Additional enhancements are planned for ArtVille, the museum's socks-only space for children 0-4.
"We want to create the best experiences for our families, as they spend time together discovering art and exploring their imaginations to nurture creativity and develop problem-solving skills," said O'Rork. "We're excited to offer the Friday hours and hope to add more hours in the future."
More museum activities: www.ideaMuseum.org.
Contact: Yvette Armendariz
Museum Public Relations & Marketing
Yvette.Armendariz@MesaAZ.gov
(480) 644-4129