Da Vinci at Waikato Museum
The Da Vinci Machines opens at Waikato Museum on March 14.
The international exhibition showcases 60 interactive machines based on the original drawings of Leonardo da Vinci and crafted by internationally acclaimed Florentine artisans Teknoart - including his flying machines, war machines, and nautical, hydraulic and architectural innovations.
Adding a local flavour will be Hamilton-based company Stainless Design, who are the major sponsor of the exhibition. The company has designed a table based on one of Da Vinci’s early drawings which will be displayed alongside the other models.
A crafted bike by BECA, which sponsored the tour at previous venues, will also be displayed.
Visitors to the exhibition will be invited to touch and handle the models to gain a first-hand appreciation of how they work, with each accompanied by explanatory notes and illustrative panels featuring Da Vinci’s drawings.
Museum Director Kate Vusoniwailala said the exhibition will be the first time in three years that The Da Vinci Machines has been displayed in the region.
“The exhibition will be a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the different facets of Leonardo da Vinci’s brilliant mind … It will also be the last chance to see this outstanding exhibition before it leaves Australasia for good,” she said.
The international exhibition has attracted record visitor numbers at all New Zealand venues in which it has been displayed.
The Da Vinci Machines opens at Waikato Museum this Saturday and runs until 29 June 2009. The opening weekend will feature some specially guided tours by renowned Da Vinci expert and storyteller Ken Benn.
