Makesmith Workshop to ‘Open Doors’ at Conner Prairie

As the "maker" movement continues to take hold throughout Indiana, Conner Prairie Interactive History Park in Fishers has launched its version with an exhibit aimed at both children and adults. The Makesmith Workshop focuses on giving guests hand-on experiences in the basics of sewing, woodworking and metal work. Chief Programs Officer Richard Cooper says it’s important for museums to find new, immersive experiences to keep visitors engaged.

In an interview on Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, Cooper discussed why the workshop will be a permanent exhibit. "This is in many ways, the next phase of our making," he said. "We tested with visitors, learned what they wanted to experience in spaces like this. We created make-and-takes on the grounds, now this space allows us to create a year-round experience and bring in new opportunities on a monthly and bi-monthly basis."

First up for the Makesmith Workshop is textiles. Cooper says it fits with the evolution of the attraction. "I think it’s very important for museums to look for new opportunities to allow visitors to come in and engage in new ways," he adds. "It’s not about a museum telling visitors how to engage, it’s really (about) opening doors and allowing for them to engage the way they want through individual experiences."

You can connect to more about the workshop by clicking here.