Exploring Art and Technology in Mesa’s New Interactive ‘Idea Lab’ Space

Mesa’s Idea Museum Unveils Innovative ‘Idea Lab’ for Summer Exploration

Mesa, AZ — This summer, the Idea Museum in Mesa is opening a dynamic new interactive space aimed at engaging children in the realms of art, technology, and sustainability. Dubbed the “Idea Lab,” this innovative area aims to provide young visitors with unique learning opportunities through hands-on activities centered around upcycling, artificial intelligence, and creative expression.

The Idea Lab, supported by the tech giant Meta, offers a host of interactive experiences designed to foster creativity and innovation. Among the featured activities are “Build a Bug Adventure,” “Brick Beats,” and the “Upcycle Challenge.” Children will also have the opportunity to take on the roles of lighting and sound technicians in an immersive setting that highlights Arizona’s native wildlife.

Jarrad Bittner, executive director of the Idea Museum, emphasizes the importance of creative expression in the new lab. “Kiddos can create on these trees as if they’re sculptures. We have photo booths built into them, and they can control all the lights, the colors, and sounds,” he stated in an interview with ABC15. This immersive approach allows children to engage with their environment in a multifaceted manner, thereby enhancing their interactive experience.

One of the primary focuses of the lab is promoting family interaction. As Bittner notes, “We’re trying to connect a whole family unit. We have open-ended experiences in the upcycle area, where families can create from discarded materials.” Artistic pieces showcased within the lab have been crafted by local artists using upcycled materials, celebrating the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert’s wildlife while promoting environmental sustainability.

A particularly intriguing feature of the Idea Lab is the “Brick Beats” station. This area combines art and technology, allowing families to create music through a unique interface. By using LEGO pieces in conjunction with AI technology, participants can generate musical compositions that foster both creativity and technical understanding. Bittner explains, “It’s about how art and technology come together in a meaningful way, extending physical experiences through innovative technology.”

Visitor Information

Interested visitors can explore the Idea Museum, located at 150 W. Pepper Pl. in Mesa. Regular hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m., with the museum remaining closed on Mondays. Admission costs for adults, while children under the age of one can attend for free. The museum also offers family memberships priced at , providing unlimited visits for an entire year.

Families seeking budget-friendly options will find various opportunities for reduced admission. Notably, on the second Friday in June, the museum will host a special evening of free admission, accompanied by an inclusive resource fair for neurodivergent learners and their families. Additionally, families presenting EBT or WIC cards can enjoy reduced admission rates of just per person, which presents an excellent opportunity for community access to the museum’s offerings.

This vibrant new addition to the Idea Museum exemplifies a growing trend in educational spaces, where technology and creativity intertwine to provide enriching experiences for children and families. Visitors to the lab this summer can expect not only to learn about art and technology but also to engage actively in fostering a sustainable future.