Family Day: Seeing the Invisible World to Build a New One

Explore the theme of STEAM and how we communicate our thoughts by observing the microscopic world and creating cell-inspired drawings, with guidance from University of Chicago scientist, author, and science communicator Jotham (Joe) Austin II, PhD. Drawing inspiration from the Smart’s current exhibitions and Dr. Austin’s dual expertise in science and art, families will use pocket-sized paper microscopes to examine prepared slides and draw their observations in personalized sketchbooks. Dr. Austin will also lead hands-on demonstrations showing how to isolate DNA from strawberries and use a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to study details normally invisible to the human eye.

SEM Talk + Demonstration / 11 AM-12 PM

DNA with Strawberries Demonstration / 12-1 PM

While this program is drop-in, registration is strongly encouraged to help the Smart team best prepare for the day. Walk-ins will be welcome as space allows. If you no longer can attend, kindly release your tickets so other families can attend. Thank you!

Family Day is a free monthly program at the Smart Museum of Art that invites kids of all ages and families of all kinds to create together and connect with one another. Each program is unique, fun, and free, emphasizing self-expression, experimentation, and hands-on creativity. Families can enjoy looking at art in the galleries and then make their way to the museum's lobby and/or courtyard (weather permitting) for an afternoon of art projects inspired by work from the exhibition. Art-making supplies and other materials are provided. Children under the age of 15 should be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Image: Photo from previous Family Day program, courtesy of Smart Museum of Art.