The Wonder of Learning Exhibit is an exhibition created by Reggio Children Italy sharing the experiences of the centres and schools of Reggio Emilia. It tours around the world and is in Seattle until May 2018. More background information about the exhibit can be found HERE.
More information about the exhibit can be found HERE, on the Washington Collective website. There are also several related professional learning events connected to the exhibit - more info is HERE.
I have seen the exhibit before, when it was here in the Vancouver area, out in New Westminster. That was at the beginning of my understanding of the principles and practices behind the education of the childcare centres in Reggio Emilia. I visited the exhibit yesterday with some new lenses, particularly paying attention to the language and intention of the documentation. I have many thoughts swirling in my mind and would love to chat with anyone else who visits the exhibit.
Some logistical things...
The exhibit is at One Convention Place, right around the corner from the Convention Centre in downtown Seattle. We found $7 all day weekend parking at Union Square.
There are no photographs allowed of the exhibit. And no food or drinks.
There is no admission fee but donations are welcome and encouraged.
I took a small notebook to draw and take notes but you could also take a sketchbook and pencil crayons.
I would think a visit would be from 1.5 - 3 hours. I read every panel and several excerpts from the books, and engaged with the materials and spent just under two hours there on my own. With others, there would have been lots of discussion as well.
Wear clothing that you can comfortably sit on the carpet with. There are some chairs in some areas but not in the Reggio Children huge documentation panel areas. I sat on the floor with my notebook taking notes several times.
I am particularly fond of quotes and captured many inspiring words from Carla Rinaldi, Loris Malaguzzi and Jerome Bruner and from the children of Reggio Emilia.
There is a book room room full of books in English, Italian and French sharing various projects from the childcare centres in Reggio Emilia. These books are to be viewed only at the exhibit but many of them are available for purchase in Canada through Parent Books.
In particular, the exhibit "catalogue" book is full of images and information from the exhibit.
If you visit with your children, there are "ateliers" set up around the perimeter of the exhibit including construction, natural material pulverizing, light and weaving (although these are for adults too!). There are beautiful views of downtown Seattle from the ninth floor and its just a 10 minute walk down to Pike Place Market.
If you're interested in a group road trip...let me know!
~Janice
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