Welcome! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of exhibit replication with Max Garett, who holds the unique title of “replicator.” Let’s explore what this intriguing role involves and how it contributes to the creation of engaging and educational exhibits.
In the replication shop, the team is responsible for crafting objects that appear in exhibits but cannot be real or authentic. These creations range from animal models to artifacts, fossils, and even food items. The goal is to provide visitors with a realistic and interactive experience while preserving the integrity of the original objects.
One of the exciting projects currently underway is an exhibit titled “Biomechanics.” This exhibit features a variety of models, including baby loggerhead sea turtles. These models are designed to be durable and touchable, allowing visitors to interact with them without causing any damage.
In addition to touchable models, the team also creates non-touchable objects, such as a Venus flytrap model. This particular model is displayed under an acrylic dome and crafted using diverse materials to enhance its visual appeal.
Another fascinating creation is the model of a Paradise flying snake. This touchable model includes a sculpted heart to illustrate the snake’s unique anatomy. The display features various acrylic items mounted on illuminated LED disks, showcasing different animal hearts and anatomical features.
One of the larger projects involves a diorama featuring a giant blue worm from Queensland, Australia. This model is built to scale and demonstrates the worm’s hydrostatic skeleton. Additionally, the team has created a termite mound model to illustrate the architectural and heat diffusion properties of termite mounds.
The termite mound model is constructed using fiberglass and non-toxic resin, designed to mimic the strength of actual termite mounds. Due to its size, it will be displayed in two separate pieces.
Throughout the replication process, Max and the team conduct extensive research on biology and anatomy to ensure accuracy in their recreations. The information provided by developers is crucial in achieving this goal.
Max’s journey into the world of replication began with a background in sculpture. He studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, graduating in 2012. After interning at the replication shop during his last semester, he was hired full-time, allowing him to combine his artistic skills with scientific principles.
Working in the replication shop has been a rewarding experience for Max, providing an opportunity to exercise creativity while applying scientific knowledge. The result is a series of engaging and educational exhibits that captivate and inform visitors.
Research different techniques used in exhibit replication, focusing on materials and methods. Prepare a presentation to share your findings with the class, highlighting how these techniques contribute to creating realistic and educational exhibits.
Participate in a workshop where you will create a small-scale model of an animal or artifact using materials like clay or papier-mâché. This activity will help you understand the challenges and considerations involved in replication.
Take a virtual tour of a biomechanics exhibit, if available, and analyze the models displayed. Write a report discussing the effectiveness of these models in educating and engaging visitors, and suggest improvements or new ideas.
Work in groups to design and build a diorama that showcases a specific biome or ecosystem. Focus on creating accurate and interactive models that highlight unique anatomical or structural features of the organisms within the ecosystem.
Conduct an interview with a professional in the field of exhibit replication. Prepare questions about their experiences, challenges, and the integration of art and science in their work. Share insights from the interview with your peers.
Sure! Here’s a sanitized version of the transcript, removing any informal language and personal anecdotes while maintaining the core information:
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Hello! I’m here with Max Garett, whose position is known as the replicator. Can you explain what your role entails?
Certainly! In the replication shop, we create or recreate objects that cannot be real or authentic for exhibits. Everything that visitors see in the exhibits, such as animal shapes or model recreations, is made in-house. This can include anything from animals to artifacts, bones, remains, fossils, and even food items.
Currently, we are working on an exhibit titled “Biomechanics.” One of the items we have here is a model of baby loggerhead sea turtles. These models are designed to be durable and touchable, allowing visitors to interact with them without the risk of damage.
Additionally, we create non-touchable objects, such as a Venus flytrap model, which will be displayed under an acrylic dome. For this model, I was able to use a variety of materials, allowing for a more visually appealing design.
We also have a model of a Paradise flying snake, which is designed to be touchable and features a sculpted heart to illustrate its unique anatomy. The display will include various acrylic items mounted on illuminated LED disks to showcase different animal hearts and anatomical features.
One of our larger projects is a diorama featuring a giant blue worm from Queensland, Australia. This model is to scale and demonstrates the worm’s hydrostatic skeleton. We also created a termite mound model to illustrate the architecture of termite mounds and their heat diffusion properties.
The termite mound model is constructed using fiberglass and non-toxic resin, and it will be displayed in two separate pieces due to its size. The average size of a termite mound can be quite large, and the materials used are designed to mimic the strength of actual termite mounds.
Throughout this process, I have learned a great deal about biology and anatomy, as we conduct extensive research for each project. The information provided by our developers is invaluable in ensuring accuracy in our recreations.
My background is in sculpture, having studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where I graduated in 2012. I interned here during my last semester and was subsequently hired full-time.
Overall, my experience in the replication shop has been rewarding, allowing me to exercise creativity while also applying scientific principles to our work.
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This version maintains the informative content while removing casual language and personal anecdotes.
Replication – The process of duplicating or reproducing, especially in a biological context where DNA is copied during cell division. – In molecular biology, the replication of DNA is a crucial step in cell division, ensuring that each new cell receives an exact copy of the genetic material.
Biomechanics – The study of the mechanical laws relating to the movement or structure of living organisms. – Understanding biomechanics is essential for designing prosthetic limbs that mimic the natural movement of human anatomy.
Models – Representations or simulations used to explain or predict biological processes or artistic concepts. – In biology, computational models are used to simulate the spread of diseases and predict potential outbreaks.
Anatomy – The branch of biology concerned with the study of the structure of organisms and their parts. – A thorough understanding of human anatomy is fundamental for medical students to diagnose and treat illnesses effectively.
Exhibits – Displays or presentations, often in museums or galleries, showcasing biological specimens or artistic works. – The museum’s new exhibits feature interactive displays that explore the diversity of marine life.
Sculpture – A three-dimensional work of art created by shaping or combining materials, often used to explore biological forms or themes. – The artist’s sculpture of a DNA helix beautifully captures the complexity and elegance of genetic structures.
Biology – The scientific study of life and living organisms, encompassing various fields such as genetics, ecology, and evolution. – Advances in biology have led to significant breakthroughs in understanding the genetic basis of diseases.
Artifacts – Objects made by humans, often of historical or cultural interest, which can include tools used in biological research or artistic creations. – The laboratory’s collection of artifacts includes early microscopes that revolutionized the study of cell biology.
Creativity – The use of imagination or original ideas to create something, often seen in both artistic endeavors and scientific innovations. – Creativity in experimental design is crucial for biologists seeking to uncover new insights into cellular processes.
Education – The process of receiving or giving systematic instruction, particularly in a formal setting, which can encompass both biological sciences and the arts. – Education in both biology and art fosters a well-rounded understanding of the natural world and human expression.
