What's Happening?
The Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles has reopened its popular Noah's Ark exhibit after a three-month renovation. The exhibit, which has been a staple for 18 years, now features enhanced gallery
spaces, immersive theatrical lighting, and new interactive set pieces. Among the new additions is a giant olive tree that children can explore, slides serving as exits from the ark, and a watering hole for puppet animals. A significant part of the renovation is the introduction of the Bloom Garden, designed by biodynamic farmer Daron Joffe. This garden includes native, edible, and medicinal plants, and is intended to be a multigenerational space for relaxation and inspiration. The garden also features a 100-foot-long Rainbow Arbor sculpture by artist Ned Kahn, with mist sprayers that create rainbows in sunlight.
Why It's Important?
The renovation of the Noah's Ark exhibit at the Skirball Cultural Center is significant as it enhances an already beloved cultural and educational space for children and families. By incorporating elements that encourage interaction with nature and promote environmental stewardship, the exhibit aligns with contemporary educational goals of fostering empathy, cooperation, and responsibility among young visitors. The Bloom Garden, in particular, serves as a haven for biodiversity and a practical example of sustainable practices, which are increasingly important in today's environmental discourse. The exhibit's focus on kindness and shared labor in pursuit of a sustainable planet is timely, offering a place of comfort and learning in a tumultuous era.
What's Next?
The Skirball Cultural Center plans to continue developing the Bloom Garden with the help of Shemesh Farms, which employs adults with diverse abilities. Additionally, the center is looking to hire a fellow through the Getty Global Art and Sustainability Fellowship to further enhance the garden. These efforts aim to maintain the garden as a dynamic and educational space that evolves with the needs of its visitors. The ongoing cultivation of the garden and the exhibit's interactive elements will likely continue to attract families and educational groups, reinforcing the Skirball's role as a key cultural institution in Los Angeles.
Beyond the Headlines
The Noah's Ark exhibit at the Skirball Cultural Center not only provides entertainment and education but also serves as a cultural bridge, drawing from various flood stories around the world. This inclusivity reflects the Skirball's mission to welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds, promoting a message of unity and cooperation. The exhibit's emphasis on environmental stewardship and sustainability also highlights the growing importance of these themes in cultural and educational settings, potentially influencing other institutions to adopt similar approaches.
