MeLab Interactive Lab

Overview

Nestled within the dynamic Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Miami, United States, the MeLab Interactive Lab is a captivating exhibition dedicated to exploring the fascinating interplay between our daily choices and overall well-being. This permanent exhibition invites visitors of all ages to embark on a journey of self-discovery, highlighting how lifestyle decisions influence our health and happiness.

Spread across two distinct levels within the museum's West Wing, MeLab offers a unique, hands-on experience in the Baptist Health Galleries. On Level 2, visitors engage with 'MeLab: The Journey', focusing on personal health choices and interactive experiments. Meanwhile, Level 3 hosts 'MeLab: The Discovery', which delves into the scientific and medical perspectives of health, providing a deeper understanding of the human body and mind.

History & Cultural Background

MeLab was re-envisioned and relaunched in January 2020, offering enhanced and innovative ways for guests to connect with their health. The exhibition's development was a collaborative effort, with design by Ralph Appelbaum Associates and media development by Potion Design Studio. The initial concept for MeLab, envisioned around 2016, aimed to sit within the Baptist Health South Florida People and Science Gallery, emphasizing a holistic view of human health. This approach moved beyond traditional biological explanations to explore the broader social aspects of science, making the complex topic of wellness accessible and engaging for a diverse audience.

Supported by Baptist Health, MeLab serves as a testament to the museum's commitment to fostering scientific literacy and promoting healthy living within the Miami community and for its visitors from around the world.

What Makes It Special

MeLab stands out due to its deeply personalized and highly interactive approach to health education. Visitors become part of the experiment, exploring five crucial zones: Eat, Move, Relax, Connect, and Learn. On 'The Journey' (Level 2), engaging activities like the 'Crush the Calories' game and 'Mindball' allow guests to experiment with the impact of their choices in a playful, competitive setting. The 'Health Lab' invites individuals to step into the role of a health scientist, conducting their own experiments.

Ascending to 'The Discovery' (Level 3), the focus shifts to the scientific underpinnings of health. Here, visitors can peer through microscopes at tiny specimens, explore high-definition neuroscience images from the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, and delve into the intricacies of the human brain. A 'Library of Me', developed in partnership with the Miami Dade Public Library System, offers scientific storybooks for quiet reflection. The exhibition also features a thought-provoking Artificial Intelligence installation by UK artist Thomas Webb, titled 'I Like It When I See You In Person Because You Can't Lie To Me Like You Do On The Internet', which reacts to facial expressions, prompting contemplation on mental health and technology's influence.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One fascinating detail about MeLab is its innovative design that allows the exhibition space to transform. The exhibits are constructed to be removable and can be stored within themselves, enabling the gallery to also function as a premier rental venue for evening events. This adaptive use of space showcases thoughtful planning, ensuring that the museum maximizes its resources while still delivering a rich educational experience during regular hours.

The creation of MeLab involved a dedicated team from Frost Science, including content developers and program specialists, who meticulously crafted the interactive elements to ensure both educational value and visitor engagement. The stunning brain sculpture featured in the exhibition is a work by Felice Grodin. Furthermore, the larger Frost Science Museum, which houses MeLab, is notable as one of the few institutions worldwide that integrates both an aquarium and a planetarium, offering a comprehensive scientific exploration under one roof.

Visitor Perspective

For a curious traveler, MeLab offers an exceptional opportunity to gain insight into personal health and scientific inquiry. It encourages active participation rather than passive observation, making complex scientific concepts relatable and memorable. Imagine engaging in a playful competition to 'Crush the Calories' or sinking into a 'Relax Pod' to discover music that calms the mind; these activities make learning enjoyable and personally relevant.

The experience of interacting with the AI art installation can be particularly impactful, offering a moment of introspection about our emotional responses in the digital age. For those eager to delve deeper, the 'Discovery Lab' on Level 3 of MeLab provides daily STEM activities, guided by museum educators, allowing for further exploration into technology and health. MeLab truly aims to inspire visitors to make smarter, healthier lifestyle choices, turning a museum visit into a catalyst for positive change in one's life.