Pixar Exhibit Coming to The Franklin Institute

Beginning March 12, The Franklin Institute unveils its highly anticipated exhibit, The Science Behind Pixar, which runs through Sept. 5. Visitors can “experience a unique, first-time look into the Pixar process, and explore the science and technology behind some of the most beloved animated films and their unforgettable characters.”

Curious how Elastigirl’s arm gets super stretchy? Ever wonder how Pixar is able to simulate water? You’ll learn about all of that and more, through hands-on activities. Kids can even take part in digital sculpting to create their own interactive 3D robot model, choose models with just enough complexity for a scene in Cars, or use custom lighting to illuminate a model set from Up. It’s all here.

The exhibit features more than 40 interactive elements across eight sections, showcasing the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts used by the artists and computer scientists who help create and bring Pixar’s award-winning films to the big screen, and bring digital characters to life.

Visitors can essentially go behind the scenes and take an unparalleled, hands-on tour through the filmmaking process and catch an up-close glimpse at how Pixar does its thing. You’ll be able to listen to firsthand accounts from members of the studios’ production teams, take part in all kinds of activities, and kids can even come face to face with recreations of their favorite characters such as Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode, and WALL•E!