Thanks to our friends at Museum of Science and Industry for complimentary tickets. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

Experience The Science Behind Pixar this Summer at MSI Chicago

It’s no secret that the Museum of Science and Industry is one of my favorite places to visit when I’m in Chicago. On almost every trip home I have to take my children to visit. It was a childhood favorite for me, and I love to feel the nostalgia when I visit with my family. Walking the halls can take an entire day. We go as soon as they open the doors, and spend all day exploring and learning in each exhibit hall. If you go to Chicago, it is a must see attraction! 

A special, must see exhibit at the museum this summer, and running through Jan 2019 is “The Science Behind Pixar.” Have you ever wondered how your favorite Pixar movies are made?! This interactive exhibit showcases the STEM concepts behind animated classics that we love like “Finding Nemo”, “A Bug’s Life” and “Toy Story.” Throughout the exhibit all ages can enjoy and experience the film making process. While we don’t immediately think of engineering and math when it comes to creating animated movies, this exhibit gives us the opportunity to learn about what filmmakers do as their everyday jobs. It was also a great opportunity for my unschooled children to examine the different types of careers they can have using STEM technology.

The exhibit is divided into eight sections, each one focuses on a step in the film making process. 

Modeling, Rigging, Surfaces, Sets and Cameras,
Animation, Simulation, Lighting, and Rendering.

Sets and Cameras: Guests will discover how a bugs-eye view was achieved for “A
Bug’s Life,” through camera angles and large-set design within the computer.
Modeling: Envision how digital sculptures are created based on sketches from artists.
Lighting: Solve challenges similar to what Pixar artists faced in creating animated water
in “Finding Nemo.”
Rigging: See how models are given a virtual skeleton to enable the animators to add
movement.
Surfaces: Discover the techniques behind adding color and texture to every surface.

**The Science Behind Pixar is sponsored locally by BMO Harris Bank and will be at MSI through
January 6, 2019. It is not included in Museum Entry and requires an additional timed-entry
ticket, $14 for adults and seniors and $11 for children.

The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago is located at: 

5700 S Lake Shore Dr,

Chicago, IL 60637

MSI is open 9:30–4 p.m. every day
except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Extended hours, until 5:30 p.m., are offered during peak periods.

For more information, tickets, and to plan your visit, check out MSIChicago.org!