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February First Saturday: Rock, Paper, Stickers—The Science of Surface

  • Wagner Free Institute of Science (map)

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From cave paintings, to love letters, to bank statements, or even the plans for the moon landing, writing down our ideas—as words and images—gives them power and helps us communicate across centuries. For writing to last, stylus must meet surface and create an indelible mark. At this Open House, Thomas Jefferson University Chemistry Professor Dr. Thomas Twardowski will present a set of demonstrations that explore inks and surfaces, binding and sticking, marking and fading, to illuminate the traditions of written communications.

Schedule:

1 & 3:15 PM: Science of Surface presentation with Dr. Tom Twardowski

12 - 4 PM: Ongoing activity stations:

Will it Stick? There is surface and there is ink - how do they stick together?

What's Inside Transparent - use a special light to reveal hidden colors and patterns

Glitter Beads and Binders - make your own glitter beads, and discover how binders combine with pigments to make ink for writing and painting

Putty Science - Play with putty to investigate the rich history of written communication, including cameo, intaglio, blocking and more

Recycled Papermaking - make your own hand-dipped piece of recycled paper (weather-permitting)

Scavenger Hunts

Create your own drawing in the museum

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December 31

"First Look" Lantern Slide Show