SE Valley Times

The idea Museum is set to reopen on December 13, 2024, after a three-month closure for rebranding and facility upgrades. Previously known as i.d.e.a. Museum, the institution has simplified its name while retaining the essence of its original acronym: Imagination, Design, Experience, and Art. The museum's new logo reflects this commitment to creativity and artistic expression.

During the closure, several enhancements were made to the museum's facilities. Public art installations were added, including a mural and interactive pinwheels. A significant construction project transformed the former administration office into a new space for guests, scheduled to open in early 2025. Visitors will also notice updated activities and an all-new exhibition alongside freshly painted walls and new flooring.

The reopening will feature "JoyRide: Art on Wheels," an immersive exhibition celebrating wheels' mechanics and artistry. It includes activities such as pinstriping a lowrider, building toy-sized skateparks, contributing to a community art project using bike wheels, relaxing in a truck bed reading nook from a 1980s Ford truck, and creating with LEGO printing presses.

This exhibition is part of regular museum admission. Google Fiber sponsors it with additional support from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and funding from both the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts.

The idea Museum operates under the City of Mesa with backing from the nonprofit idea Museum Foundation. Located at 150 W. Pepper Place in Downtown Mesa, it offers interactive exhibitions aimed at fostering creativity among children through engaging STEAM activities.

For more information or to book visits starting December 13th, visitors can go to ideamuseum.org.