Amazeum, With New Name, to Open July 15

The long-anticipated opening of the Amazeum interactive children’s museum in Bentonville will be July 15 — only with a new name.

The museum, under construction near the entrance to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, will now be called the Scott Family Amazeum, it was announced March 17 during a news conference at the Walmart Museum in downtown Bentonville.

The recognition, according to a news release, is in honor of the Lee and Linda Scott family, who have spent more than 30 years in Northwest Arkansas, and were among the early advocates of what was initially known as The Children’s Museum of Northwest Arkansas.

Lee Scott spent 35 years with Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and retired as CEO in 2009. The decision to name the building after his family came out of gratitude for their support of the Amazeum.

The Scott’s son, Eric Scott, serves on the Amazeum board. His wife, Elda Scott, is a volunteer supporter.

Details of a permanent exhibit at the museum to recognize Walmart as a signature sponsor were also explained Tuesday. In an interactive space called The Market, guests will be able to not only shop for produce and groceries, but also don aprons and work behind the butcher counter or in the bakery. Additionally, they will be able to serve other guests in the café or play the role of cashier.

Also highlighted in this space is the work of artist Matthew Moore, who was featured in Crystal Bridges’ landmark exhibit, State of the Art. Moore also is a farmer, and his work focuses on nature and the land. His time-lapse photography of crops growing will be installed among the produce in the market. Guests will be able to use a dial to speed up, slow down or reverse the growth process.

Details of additional exhibitions, hours and admission fees will be announced at a later date, prior to the museum’s grand opening.