Amazeum launches Maker in Residence program

The Scott Family Amazeum in Bentonville has launched a Maker in Residence program.

“We’re excited to be entering a new phase in our commitment to bringing high-quality, creative and educational experiences to the community,” Amazeum Executive Director Sam Dean said in a news release. “We recognize the importance placed on building creativity into social and economic platforms in Northwest Arkansas and how important it is to support a culture of making in our community. We are looking forward to upcoming projects with partners like artist and engineer Mark Perez and the Life Size Mouse Trap performance troupe, and artist Danny Scheible, the creator of Tapagami, as they will truly show what we are all able to do together.”

The program will connect artists with engineers, craftspeople and technologists in different fields to collaborate and “push the boundaries of design and develop a framework for infusing innovative, unique experiences in the public domain,” the release said.

The Amazeum will host national and regional makers during the next year as part of the program. Throughout the year, several makers from across the United States and throughout Northwest Arkansas will experiment at the Amazeum on participatory installations and permanent builds. During their stay, the community will have the opportunity to interact with makers as part of the creative process.

The Maker in Residence Program is funded through a grant from the Walton Family Foundation with additional support from Bob and Theresa Arvin.