Kiewit Luminarium Opens Doors to Discovery

Article originally published by Omaha Daily Record and Carla Chance
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OMAHA, Neb. — If a tree falls in the forest, and no one is around, does it make a sound … Well, without our air, which is filled with molecules, the world would be silent. Sound is a vibration carried by acoustic waves, which travel through various elements in our atmosphere. But, if you don’t believe it, see or rather hear for yourself.

Is love truly in the air or is it just a chemical reaction … triggered by some cooked up magic potion or Valentine’s Day marketing gimmick, designed to sell more roses … Curious, uncover just what makes one’s heart beat a bit faster and causes couples to click.

Have you ever been asked to face your fears … How about doing so in a safe environment, like walking the plank off a highrise building, but over a virtual or pseudo ledge for those brave souls, who can measure up to the task?

These are just a sampling of the more fascinating phenomena visitors can discover for themselves at Kiewit Luminarium, a multi-award-winning science museum, among the newest additions to Omaha’s revitalized RiverFront, along the banks of the Missouri.

“The Luminarium invites people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities to experiment and learn something new through over 125 interactive exhibits and diverse programs, according to Julie DeWitt, who serves as its Vice President of Marketing and Communications. “It is designed to spark curiosity about the world around us.”

“Kiewit Luminarium is a place for everyone to explore astonishing phenomena and learn with their hands. It inspires lifelong interest and careers in science, technology, and engineering, and opens doors for anyone and everyone to discover,” according to their stated mission.

In the grand scheme of things, its importance to this community – in this particular time and space – can’t be denied.

“Omaha was the last city of its size to have a science center,” DeWitt explained. “Science centers like the Luminarium make STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) learning accessible to children and adults and can spark interest in STEM careers, spark new ideas, and foster a deeper understanding of the world.”

In fact, “studies” show, it extends beyond its very walls …

“Field trips to the Luminarium also complement what students are learning in the classroom in a handson, interactive environment,” she added.

The Luminarium, which opened April 2023, welcomed more than 260,000 visitors during its first year of operation and more than 8,400 field trip students, too – according to its 4.7 Google rating – stellar reviews.

Need more proof of its gravitational pull?

“Being the new kid on the block, the Luminarium has already made an impact on Omaha tourism. Since opening, our research shows more than 81,000 out-of-town travelers have visited this magical Omaha attraction,” according to Deborah Ward, executive director of Visit Omaha, a city entity designed to stimulate economic growth by increasing visitation through sports, travel, conventions, meetings, and leisure.

And, while most visitors know what the Luminarium is, some – like the young scientists they hope to inspire – may be asking – what on Earth does it all mean?

“Defined as ‘a walk-in sculpture designed as an artistic display of light and color,’ the name Luminarium was developed to evoke all the ways in which the science center brightens curiosity and reveals wonder,” DeWitt said.

To shed more light on this massive endeavor, here’s how it all came to be.

The Luminarium was funded through philanthropic support with lead gifts from the Kiewit Corporation, the Walter Scott Family Foundation, the Peter Kiewit Foundation, and the Grewcock Family. The total cost was $107 million, she said.

Key partners included: Kiewit, Heritage Omaha, the Exploratorium, HDR, and Rainwood Development Partners.

The Luminarium’s Holland Talk lecture series, with its slate of nationally and internationally known experts, is made possible through the generous support of the Holland Foundation, DeWitt added.

Although the universe is vast, there is no place like home … The metro area’s imprint can be found throughout the museum.

“The Luminarium and Exploratorium teams worked with collaborators from across the community, including our Advisor Group, on content areas and in developing exhibits that reflect greater Omaha and our community. Over 220 local individuals and organizations contributed to our exhibits,” she said.

But to welcome all the world’s masses, they also focused on inclusivity.

The exhibits and programming, presented in both English and Spanish, are designed for visitors ages 6 and up. Entrance is free to Native Americans, whose ancestral lands house the museum, with special pricing for nonprofit organizations, what constitutes family units, and discounts.

Forging a strong partnership, the Exploratorium’s Global Collaborations team designed the Luminarium’s 125 exhibits, working alongside HDR on the environmental design of the galleries.

For future reference, HDR was the architect of record, tasked with the overall architectural and engineering design. The Exploratorium, a public learning laboratory in San Francisco, was responsible for the design, fabrication, and installation of the exhibits.

The Exploratorium may not be as familiar here, but it has had a vast global impact over the years.

“The Exploratorium is a world-renowned museum of science, art, and human perception. Founded in 1969 by Frank Oppenheimer, the Exploratorium has become synonymous with interactive learning, hands-on experimentation, and the exploration of scientific phenomena,” according to Anne Richardson, its Chief Experience Officer.

Not only are they at the forefront of STEM research and education, but far-reaching.

“This innovative approach to science education was groundbreaking at the time and has since inspired the design of interactive science centers around the world, including Kiewit Luminarium in Omaha,” she said.

One could say, they’ve been reaching for the stars …

“Our work in Global Collaborations aims to expand our influence beyond our museum walls. We work with partners worldwide to offer our expertise in transforming and creating new science centers. Today, approximately 80 percent of science centers around the world have Exploratorium influenced learning experiences. Their collective creations touch approximately 230 million people each year,” she said.

“In addition to Kiewit Luminarium, the Exploratorium has worked with partners nationally and internationally on collaborations ranging from building new museums from the ground up to co-creating exhibits for established institutions.

“This includes science centers like the SESI Lab in Brazil, Science Centre Singapore, and The Scientific Center of Kuwait, as well as projects in our backyard, including the Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland and an interactive, public placemaking project in San Francisco, called Middle Ground,” she added.

So, just how did people – in the zenith of their careers – become aligned here? Perhaps we should be counting our lucky stars …

“Cultural leaders in Omaha saw a need for a new STEM learning organization for the diverse communities of Omaha and were inspired by the Exploratorium. In 2019, Heritage Omaha reached out to the Exploratorium to launch a planning process together,” she said.

“When Kiewit Luminarium opened in the spring of 2023, it was the culmination of a four-year partnership where we collectively shaped the Luminarium’s vision, design, exhibits, and programs alongside local community leaders.

“The building itself is designed to foster hands-on engagement. The exhibits allow visitors of all ages and backgrounds to learn and explore at their own pace, independently and with fellow visitors,” she explained.

With a clear vision in mind, they also needed a rock-solid foundation to unearth the mysteries of our firmament and beyond.

“HDR was chosen because of its relationship with community stakeholders, having a sound historical working relationship with key community projects,” according to John Dineen, Director of Planning, Education and Science.

“The client had great trust and confidence in the HDR, Exploratorium, and Kiewit team. Project challenges were numerous. We had to meet a tight schedule, starting in the fall of 2020 with an opening of spring 2023,” he said.

But this wasn’t their “first rodeo” in terms of Nebraska speak.

“It required a firm that had delivered on other complex and pressure filled projects. The HDR and Kiewit partnership is a testament to overcoming challenges and delivering excellence in a facility of this prominence and value to the region,” he added.

Mission accomplished, Dineen refers to their design as “confident simplicity.”

“It invites an immersive experience, an open garage – so to speak – to tinker, explore and experiment,” he said, of their visionary concept.

“In the early stages of planning the design, we discussed the facility’s significance as a container, and how visitors could literally and figuratively be completely involved with an exhibit.”

Here are just a few examples of their fun fused concepts – one where children can delight in a geometric jungle gym – at play.

“HDR and the Exploratorium collaborated at length to identify how the architecture and the exhibit experience supported one another. The Climber and the Stella exhibits within the Make It Count gallery (mathematics and geometry) are a result of that collaborative effort to make the highest and best use of the space being created and adapting the exhibits to take advantage of the full opportunity that the interior space allows. The Grid and Echo Tube exhibits are other great examples of this,” he explained.

Although inspired by its West Coast flagship museum, the Luminarium is distinctly Midwest, according to Michael P. Hamilton, HDR’s Design Principal.

“Kiewit Luminarium provides hands-on, machine like exhibits, similar to the Exploratorium, but with a Great Plains spin,” he said.

Yet, they did go back to the drawing board to help formulate ideas.

“We derived a lot of inspiration from Exploratorium founder Frank Oppenheimer, who is attributed with the observation that scientists are the ‘noticers’ of society. One of his many guiding principles in the founding of the San Francisco venue was to allow the public access to explore and understand the phenomena of science, and therefore come to their own conclusion as to how the applications of science should be deployed within our world,” he said.

However, here is where they deviated from the norm.

“Working with Exploratorium creators, we designed the exhibits and the building’s exterior at the same time. Typically, you see art and installations that are completely foreign to the building. But with the Luminarium, the symbiosis of building and exhibit can be seen in the Stella or the Climber exhibits in the south glass curtain wall system,” Hamilton explained.

“By being intentional about all possible connections, the team’s work has resulted in a visual continuity between the built and natural landscapes,” he added.

“The design has a lot of influence from the region: raw metal that expresses function, flexibility, and durability,” he noted.

As project partners, Dineen and Richardson shared the same sentiments.

“We wanted to establish a connection to both the Missouri River and the city of Omaha at the same time. To do that, we had the galleries near the river lower and closer to the ground, while the other side of the facility was raised, welcoming the city and serving almost like a billboard – signaling that science and society can come together in this location,” Dineen said.

“Many exhibits at Kiewit Luminarium reflect the unique history and culture of Omaha, the city’s connection to construction, agricultural and financial industries, and both the community’s and the Luminarium’s relationship to the Missouri River, upon which the center sits,” Richardson added.

Yes, even you, too, can play the stock market, much like Warren Buffet, Omaha’s own financial wizard, in one of the monetary oriented exhibits – albeit minus the financial risk – found on the second floor.

“Visitors can explore math concepts, including financial literacy and immersive geometry, such as a giant stellated icosahedron, affectionately known as ‘Stella.’ There are also exhibits on applied technology in farming, clothing design, and city design,” she added.

Instead of a mirror image, the Exploratorium served more as a guiding light – in terms of its content and presentation.

“The Exploratorium worked closely with the Kiewit Luminarium team to build a culture of learning and to develop programs and exhibits for visitors, and feature locally relevant content and collaborators.

“There are also many adaptations of Exploratorium exhibits that you’ll see on the museum floor at Kiewit Luminarium, including Quiet Walking, Water Drop Photography, Turntable,” Richardson said, “and more.”

But in order to learn or introduce new concepts to even more people, it also needs to factor in fun. It’s no mystery that STEM courses can seem intimidating, especially given the lack of impetus, encouragement, or exposure.

“Everything we do points back to our interactive, hands-on and open-ended approach,” she said, to counter that.

“We aim to encourage curiosity rather than focusing on formal education or teaching. For many visitors, this is their first time experiencing learning in this way, and it can be awe-inspiring. We promote learning as a personal, exploratory journey. There are no strict instructions or single ‘right’ answers, but rather we want visitors to investigate questions they find interesting at their own pace.

“By integrating science and art, we’re also able to give people multiple ways into exploring and understanding the world and ourselves,” she added.

As far as personal favorites …

“I like the sand-walking machine because everyone wants to try it and thinks they can do it. (The mechanism measures decibels as people walk on gravel as quietly and softly as possible),” Hamilton said.

“I like the Climber exhibit in the south curtain wall. Rarely do you get to interact with a curtain wall from that vantage point. It rewards those who are curious enough to climb into it. It is size-appropriate to accommodate both children and adults,” Dineen said.

Among Luminarium team members, it’s Touch the Teapot.

“The exhibit has an optical illusion, and we love to watch guests react to it. Touch the Teapot is located on the first floor in our Catch Waves gallery,” DeWitt chimed in.

But here’s the real eye-opener.

“The entire facility in itself is a demonstration exhibit, showing how components of architecture make a building,” Hamilton explained.

“All the materials and building infrastructure are exposed, visible, touchable, and on display for visitors. The whispering dishes offer a delightful surprise, as the physics of sound waves reveal a hidden truth to the curious duo who commits to this experience,” he added.

As to the importance of STEM research and education, one could say it’s exponential.

“STEM education is vital as a gateway to our advancement as a civilized society, whether in medicine, engineering, quantum computing, fusion energy, or banking and investing. It is a thrilling endeavor to bring a new approach to students, educators, and families in the region, and give greater exposure to STEM concepts,” Dineen said.

And, thanks to the foresight of these community leaders, that can begin at “home”.

“The Luminarium supports workforce development through the advancement of STEM education. It also fills a void within the current Nebraska statewide initiative toward STEM education,” he said.

Richardson, who can see the forest for the trees, from her vantage point, agreed.

“Omaha, Nebraska, is a diverse and engaged community. It’s a place that has already been building spaces and practices for discourse and learning. Kiewit Luminarium is the perfect place to come together to learn about and from one another,” the California resident said.

To further instill the point …

“We believe that science centers are more important than ever. It’s important that communities have a place where people can come together to explore, understand, connect and think critically. It’s important that there’s a place where everyone can find belonging and inspiration, and possibly pathways into STEM careers,”  she said.

Viewed as a launching pad, Dineen echoes its impact.

“The Luminarium exposes us to the natural phenomena of science, with access to all, and bolsters interest in STEM for the region,” he said. “The facility fills a void in the current education system for hands-on, active learning, in an environment totally different from a typical classroom setting.”

A learning lab, it offers the opportunity to engage a focused age group of students in middle school to make a lasting impression toward their interest in science, technology, engineering, and math.

“The potential for STEM education and community partnerships is unlimited. The venue can support and enhance curriculum developed in single teacher classrooms, going beyond a one-way delivery of information, to a hands-on experience,” he added.

Their final synopsis …

“The Luminarium is a vibrant, cultural attraction. The architectural design has won more than a dozen awards so far, including from Fast Company, the Illuminating Engineering Society, and from regional and national chapters of the American Institute of Architects,” Dineen said.

This is due, in part, to its integral elements.

“The part workshop part museum breaks down societal barriers of age, gender, and race. It is an opportunity to experiment and experience marvels that can be interpreted and enjoyed by each user at their own pace and understanding,” he said.

And it’s not just for kids, Night Light is a special event series dedicated just for adults, providing another unique opportunity to socialize and experience the building and exhibits.

So, what’s the incentive …

“When you leave the Luminarium, you may find moments in the every day where you will pause and think back to an exhibit or activity you engaged with. You may see the world around you a little differently. You may see yourself differently. We’re a place for curious people, and if you haven’t been here yet, we hope your curiosity leads you here,” DeWitt said.

Plus, it might make residents a bit prouder.

“It’s a fun and telling example of how Omaha is more progressive and exciting than it generally gets credit for. This project is a good reminder for those who live in Omaha – and a good eye-opener for those who are from out of town or returning after a time away – that Omaha is exciting, engaging and on pulse with innovation,” he said.

That said, could there possibly be anything else to uncover … Why, yes, you’ve probably learned by now, the quest for knowledge is endless.

However …

“There is a hidden, encrypted message embedded within the venue, for visitors to first discover and then decode,” Dineen, playfully, said.

______________________________________________________________

GLOW

Let there be light is the focus behind GLOW, Kiewit-Luminarium’s annual exhibition of light, art and science – now showing through Jan. 26 at Omaha’s 82,000-square-foot science museum, located at the Lewis and Clark Landing at the RiverFront, 345 Riverfront Dr.

From immersive art installations that embrace light as a medium to fascinating science programming, the Luminarium is once again brightening the long nights and cold days of winter, according to Julie DeWitt, its Vice President of Marketing and Communications.

“GLOW programming for all ages explores the broad spectrum of light’s influence on human culture and its significance as a source of scientific inquiry in disciplines ranging from biology to astrophysics,” she said.

Back by popular demand, GLOW transforms the Luminarium into an immersive, interactive experience as the museum is filled with light art from local and international artists.

GLOW is free with a daytime member or general admission ticket to the museum.

It is just one in an array of more than 125 interactive exhibits, engaging programs, and weekly special events devoted to scientific phenomena, according to DeWitt, which are featured throughout the year.

In addition to the museum, The RiverFront, found minutes from the Capitol District and Old Market area, includes plenty of green space, sand volleyball, walking, and hiking trails.

Not to mention the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, Destination Playground, and Baby Bob Bridge, which adds another connection, from 10th and Mike Fahey streets to the Missouri shore.

To learn more, please visit: https://kiewitluminarium.org/ to view their entire scope of pro-grams and exhibits, lecture series, featuring nationally and internationally known experts, rental options, and other amenities, including Fig. café and gift shop, or call (402) 502-3366.

And, it’s a given fact, not fiction, they have a major announcement in store…

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