Creativity and contrasts collide

Opposites Abstract: A Mo Willems Exhibit

Opposites Abstract: A Mo Willems Exhibit gives children the opportunity to “make some silliness and take art seriously at the same time.” – Mo Willems

Opposites are all around us. This exhibit invites children to explore the complicated yet simple concept of opposites through hands-on experiences and art-making activities.

This exhibit uses larger-than-life materials inviting children to imagine and consume art using intentional accidents. Guests may gravitate toward any of the following components:

• Shape projector: Create an abstract artwork using light and color with shadow play.
• Shape stacker: Stack colored shapes in a vertical frame to build a composition. When finished, pull the knob to dump the blocks on the table. How does the new composition compare to your arrangement?
• Drawing machine: Draw lines and shapes on one screen and watch the opposite appear on the other.
• Sound slower: Use the buttons to play a melody and turn the crank to change the music. By turning the crank, you can manipulate the speed. How does the music change?
• Ball launcher: Pull the lever to send a ball through a group of pegs. See if you can make the ball disappear into one of the groups.
• Word abstractor: Choose a pair of opposites and use the buttons or rollers to change how the words look. See how many variations you can make!
• Color reverser: Can colors have opposites? Hold a mask to the color reverser and press the button; see how the colors change!
• Art blender: Pick an element of art and then the opposite on the chart. Can you create artwork that combines both? Once finished, hang your work on the section of the board that represents both ideas.
• Tactile book: Touch the art! The book features raised lines and textures, making artwork more accessible for people who are blind, have low vision or learn through touch.