As part of a recent round of curation of submissions, the West Michigan Graphic Design Archives has accepted the Weathering Emotions exhibit into its collection. The curator noted that the exhibit is exemplary of collaborative problem-solving with a challenging purpose: to help children and families explore and process emotions. In addition to its focus on children who may not yet have a vocabulary for emotions, the exhibit was designed to be inclusive for children and families with disabilities. It is also multilingual. 

Part of the permanent collection of the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, the Weathering Emotions exhibit is an immersive, interactive experience built on the metaphor of weather. Visitors can control simulated weather in a “Sound Cloud,” practice mindful movement guided by ABC meteorologist Ginger Zee, share memories at a grief station, affirm themselves in a mirror display, tell emotional stories with blocks, feel a tornado’s wind, and build rainbows through play.

CARNEVALE, based in Grand Rapids, developed the exhibit in partnership with the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum and the nonprofit I Understand, which honors the memory of Kimber Mutch Bergner. 

On November 18, two days before Children’s Grief Awareness Day, West Michigan Graphic Design Archives will host an event at the museum. After social time bringing together practicing designers, students, and other interested professionals, a panel discussion will explore the collaborative process that integrated technology, space, objects, sound, and special effects.

For details about the exhibit team, see the listing among the Archives projects.