What is The Leonardo?

Leonardo da Vinci stands out for his breadth of exploration and enduring influence. He was a brilliant artist, scientist, and engineer who approached life with unquenchable curiosity, learning how to see and understand the world in new ways.

It is in this same spirit that The Leonardo was conceived. Our mission: to inspire creativity and innovation in young people and adults. Our tools: a multidisciplinary blend of science, technology, and art.

Opening in Spring 2011 in the old library building in downtown Salt Lake City, The Leonardo takes a unique, interactive approach to engaging visitors — an approach grounded in current research and inspired by centuries of innovators, including our namesake. The Leonardo will:

· Blend Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) with the Arts, or “STEAM,” to enhance science/tech literacy, inspire creativity and innovation, and improve critical thinking skills.

· Highlight real-world topics, research and inventions in immersive exhibits, dialogs, hands-on workshops, performances, and major traveling exhibitions like BODY WORLDS.

· Introduce visitors to current day “Leonardos” like Nobel Prize Winner Dr. Mario Capecchi, business leaders and educators, contemporary installation and digital artists, ethicists and philosophers.

· Invite visitors to be a part of real innovation as it happens, by contributing to ongoing studies, taking classes in digital media, and building their own solar-powered and energy-efficient gadgets.

Renovations have begun on The Leonardo’s future home, exhibit design and prototyping is underway, and educational outreach programs for students and adults alike are already bringing hands-on learning to thousands of people throughout the state each year.

When The Leonardo opens its doors permanently, it will celebrate the enduring ideals of Leonardo da Vinci, encouraging visitors to see and think in new ways, find surprising insights in both their triumphs and disappointments, venture beyond the known, and better understand and affect our world for good.

The Leonardo Programs

Though the grand opening of The Leonardo won't be until next year, you can get involved now through a host of programs, sneak-peeks, and prototypes.

Leonardo After Hours

Leonardo After Hours is a series of public events that tackles current science and technology topics and their impact on society. Local experts from universities, industry and government join the public for lively discussions in a laid-back, evening atmosphere.

The Leo on Wheels

The Leo on Wheels educational outreach program travels to middle schools throughout Utah serving nearly 14,000 students each year.  It integrates science core content with 21st century thinking skills through hands-on, inquiry based activities which foster critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.

STEMworks: Biotechnology

The Leonardo's STEMworks: Biotechnology program is a collection of interactive, job-related biotech exhibits that travel the greater Salt Lake City metropolitan area. The program draws its name from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics — disciplines critical to Utah's economic growth.

Pilots and Prototypes

The Leonardo will also be launching pilot programs in the months leading to opening where you'll have a chance to prototype some of the very activities that will be part of the museum experience. If you're interested in participating in these pilot programs, please sign up for our e-newsletter, follow us in Twitter, or become a fan of The Leonardo on Facebook to stay in touch.