A collaboration between the Exploratorium, MAKE Magazine, and Pixar Animation Studios, Open MAKE is a monthly program highlighting the tools, techniques, and ingenuity of local Makers. Visitors are invited to participate in tinkering and making activities inside the Tinkering Studio, where Makers from around the Bay Area will share their work. In addition, Dale Dougherty, founder and editor of MAKE Magazine, will interview Featured Makers in the McBean Theater.
This month’s theme was toys. Four Featured Makers were interviewed in the McBean Theater between 1 and 2 p.m., talking about their work and process, and taking questions from the audience. The interview was also webcast live! Please click here to watch.
- I-Wei Huang showcased some of his steam-powered robots.
- emiko oye and Shana Astrachan talked about making jewelry from toys.
- Dr. Marek Michalowski shared how a robot for autism research became a squishy dancing toy.
- And finally Nathan Sawaya talked about why he decided to abandon his law practice to build large scale LEGO art installations.
In the Tinkering Studio, as well as on the museum floor, we’ll share some of our forays into the wonderful world of toys. Visitors were able to dissect toys and find out what mechanisms make them animate at the touch of a button; build a scribbling machine that will jiggle and wiggle and make art; try making a top that spins the longest, or wobbliest, or upside down; or perhaps build a kinetic contraption made of copper wire, or create beautiful art with a kaleidoscope.
Makers from all over the Bay Area, as well as Tinkering Studio staff, shared activities with the public between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Scheduled Workshops
Accessorize with Toys with emiko oye and Shana Astrachan
Sat, Jan 21 — 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Ever wonder what to do with those random small toy parts too dear to toss but no longer any fun? Learn how to revitalize old toys into wearable art by utilizing basic jewelry techniques.
San Francisco jewelry designers, emiko oye and Shana Astrachan (members of the Metal Arts Guild) will show you how to approach jewelry making with alternative materials and simple craft tools. The featured projects are Expressive Badges and Charm Bracelets, for beginner and intermediate skill levels. Participants are encouraged to bring small plastic and rubber toy parts to work with or contribute. All ages welcome; especially great for families. More about Accessorize with Toys.
Space will be limited, and participation on a first-come-first-served basis, so come early to secure a spot!
