The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia recently opened its new Body Odyssey exhibit, which EXP helped bring to life through lighting design services. The $8.5 million exhibit showcases the latest innovations in immersive museum exhibit technology, featuring interactive environments, full body simulations and engaging displays.
EXP lighting designers produced an interior lighting scheme to illuminate the exhibits and blend new lighting additions seamlessly into the historic infrastructure. The project showcases EXP’s expertise in innovative museum installations while adapting to challenges like preserving the integrity of the historic space with non-invasive techniques and strategically placed fixtures. “The Franklin Institute is an educational landmark in Philadelphia, a museum I grew up near and learned from. We’re proud to have contributed our lighting design services to this latest exhibit that continues to inspire the next generation of STEM students,” said Senior Lighting Designer Madison DiAddezio.
In a recent survey of students who visited The Franklin Institute, lighting was considered one of the major engaging components of the museum. EXP’s lighting designers worked with a holistic approach to the design of this exhibit, implementing adaptive lighting that responded to visitor flow and engagement while respecting the building’s historic character. “Each of our lighting design elements serves a range of purposes, to guide visitors through the space, highlight key displays and create an environment that facilitates learning without overwhelming the senses,” said Lighting Director, Kate Sanoke.
Since 1824, The Franklin Institute has provided a place for both children and adults to learn more about science through interactive and engaging exhibits. The new Body Odyssey exhibit highlights an immersive journey through the human body, teaching visitors about the systems that make up human bodies, brains and how everything connects. Three sections within the exhibit, Natural Balance, Innovations, and Finding Your Balance, showcase the interconnectedness of the human body and the ways mental health and physical health work together to make us human. The exhibit includes media screens showcasing real people describing their roles and careers in health-related fields, to inspire students and offer a glimpse into the healthcare industry. Included in the exhibit is the iconic Giant Heart, built in 1953 and originally constructed with paper mâché, chicken wire and wood. The Giant Heart exhibit features sensory technology that offers visitors the opportunity to interact with innovative and engaging features, like synchronized heartbeats and pulsating light displays.
EXP is proud to contribute to educational spaces that serve the community and provide a dynamic learning environment for children and adults.
Learn more about our lighting design services >
Learn about our contributions to The Franklin Institute’s Wonderous Space exhibit >
Images courtesy of MDSX