Earthquake Preparedness Exhibit
Client: California Academy of Sciences
Category: Exhibit
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, California
Date: 2011
The Earthquake Preparedness exhibit at the California Academy of Sciences explores the geological forces that drive seismic activity and translates this science into practical knowledge for public safety. The exhibit visualizes the Earth’s interior, allowing visitors to see the forces and phenomena beneath the planet’s surface that influence the movement of tectonic plates and the occurrence of earthquakes.
Gizmo Art Production fabricated custom exhibit components supporting both interpretive content and interactive engagement. Central to the exhibit is a large-scale digital experience in which visitors use touchscreens to rotate the Earth’s layers and move puzzle-like elements across an 85-inch plasma display. Fabrication focused on precise housing, structural support, and seamless integration of digital hardware within a durable public-facing enclosure.
Additional fabricated elements include custom graphic panels and structural components designed to communicate complex scientific concepts while withstanding heavy visitor use clearly. Materials and construction methods were selected to meet museum standards for safety, durability, and maintenance, with careful attention to clean detailing, accessibility, and long-term performance.
By combining robust fabrication with interactive technology and Earth science interpretation, the Earthquake Preparedness exhibit provides visitors with a deeper understanding of seismic processes and the tools needed to prepare for earthquakes in an engaging, hands-on environment.
