SPARK, the Children’s Museum of Rochester, Inc. is expanding its wings by partnering with the Rochester International Airport (RST) through play, learning, and discovery with an exhibition focused on celebrations.
SPARK reopened a modular exhibit from the Freeman Foundation Asian Culture Exhibit Series at RST earlier this month. The exhibit was created to help children learn about and understand Asian cultures. Celebrations is designed to bring children and families together to explore New Year celebrations in South Korea, China, and Vietnam through the imagery of fireworks, lanterns, lotuses, and kites. Children can participate in activities such as drumming and storytelling. From telling the Nian Monster story in a small theater to discovering different dishes served for breakfast as an eye spy game, children will be captivated by the rich history, beauty, and fun of these Asian New Year festivals.
“SPARK is focused on several values, including connecting to cultures. The Celebrations exhibit enhanced our already robust cultural education and programming,” said Heather Nessler, executive director of the Children’s Museum of Rochester. “We are also focused on providing access to our community. Our partnership with RST allows us to offer the power of play for families waiting for a loved one or departing for their next adventure.”
“This partnership allows us to enrich our passengers’ airport experience while fostering a sense of community and understanding. We are grateful to be a part of this collaboration that will inspire curiosity and learning.” – Mary Gastner, Marketing & Communications Manager, Rochester International Airport.
Over the past twenty years, the Freeman Foundation has invested in developing a greater appreciation of Asian cultures and histories in the United States, in partnership with the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM). As a hands-on, modular exhibit, Celebrations will help visitors to deeply engage with the content. By traveling to RST, Celebrations will create a more in-depth experience, openness, and comprehension of Asian cultures.
About SPARK:
SPARK’s mission is to enrich the lives of young learners by creating shared, interactive experiences that engage people of all ages in the joy of play, the power of learning, and a sense of community. SPARK provides a place where visitors can learn about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM), cultural connectedness, and health and well-being in a collaborative, open environment. As a 501(c)(3) community-supported non-profit organization, SPARK relies on the support of individuals, corporations, foundations, volunteers, and community members.
About the Freeman Foundation:
The Freeman Foundation was established in 1993 by Mansfield Freeman. This private foundation is committed to increasing and strengthening the understanding of nations in East Asia.
About the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM):
ACM is the foremost professional society supporting children’s museums in developing rich environments that stimulate children’s natural playfulness, curiosity, and creativity. With more than 470 members in all 50 states and in 19 countries, ACM champions children’s museums and together enrich the lives of children worldwide.
