Powerhouse Parramatta: a museum of science, design and technology supercharged by spectacular art
The new museum opens with dazzling architecture and enticing exhibitions that intertwine the permanent collection with major international loans and art commissions
In the heart of Parramatta, a new museum has emerged, blending science, design, technology, and art in a $915 million project. Designed by Moreau Kusunoki and Genton, the Powerhouse Parramatta stands out amidst the modern office buildings that characterize the area. Its standout feature is the light, with glass walls allowing the sky and river below to seamlessly integrate with the interior.
The museum's first exhibition, Overflow, features a giant video screen showcasing films by Kamilaroi filmmaker Ivan Sen. These films depict seven different First Nations communities in New South Wales, highlighting their relationships with saltwater and freshwater environments. Alongside the screen, a shallow replica tidal pool mirrors the changing tides of the Parramatta River, providing an interactive experience for visitors.
For children and families, the museum offers The Dark, an exhibition specifically designed with a focus on darkness rather than fear. Here, displays of beautiful minerals and precious stones are accompanied by stories of their discoverers. Visitors are encouraged to leave their smartphones outside, allowing them to fully engage with the exhibits.
The Powerhouse Parramatta also pays homage to the shopping mall experience through The Mall exhibition. This celebration of the products, design, and community life of shopping malls includes arcade window displays, a re-imagined version of the Raindrop Fountain, and an old-fashioned photobooth. Antique cash registers and the original "Parramall" neon sign are also on display, offering a glimpse into the past when "DJ" was synonymous with style.
Task Eternal, the largest and most anticipated exhibition, delves into the world of flight and space exploration. From a Burramattagal bumarang (boomerang) on loan from the British Museum to machines that enabled lunar exploration, the exhibition features commissioned artworks, including an immersive installation by American light artist James Turrell. This installation creates a disorienting Ganzfeld effect through an intense field of changing colored light, offering a unique sensory experience for visitors.
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