This interactive Learning Resource is conceived as one of two mobile interactive units which will be situated within the decorative arts galleries at the Museum to invite families and intergenerational visitors to engage with key concepts of design, making and creation.
The first interactive, to which this invitation to tender refers, will explore materials, through their properties and texture. The second interactive will enable visitors engage with the design process and function.
The interactive gallery resources aim to:
- Express and highlight the relationship between form and function/design and functionality.
- Communicate the concepts of design thinking approaches.
- Inspire self-expression and active exploration.
- Provide an aesthetic experience and develop aesthetic awareness.Encourage younger audiences to develop their natural abilities and potential and to practice skills necessary for creative expression.
Target audience of interactive unit
Younger audience, approximately 3 – 6 years old. It will offer a tactile, explorative, and haptic learning experience where children can explore the textures and qualities of a range of materials in an environment of play and discovery.
Format
The panels will be displayed in a specially designed interactive mobile unit – see illustration below. Two sides of the unit contain four wooden boards on which the panels will be mounted. The boards pivot to reveal two different material panels on either side.
Timeframe
- 26th July: DCCI and NMI jointly invite proposals from members of the GANS to submit by date TBC.
- 30th August: The craftspeople/makers/artists/designers will submit their panel design proposals.
- 6th September: A selection panel (NMI – Helen Beaumont and Courtney McKee – and DCCI – Tom Watts – will meet to agree the final 16 submissions.) Selection of panels will be based on criteria outlined above. Candidates will be notified.
- 13th September: Designs for panels will be approved and signed off by NMI (Helen Beaumont and Courtney McKee) and DCCI (Tom Watts).
- 19th October: The panel is manufactured and delivered to the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks.
- 11th November: The finished unit with 16 completed panels will be unveiled at the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks for Design Week.
Selection
The National Museum of Ireland and the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland retain the right to the final selection of entries and may invite certain designers to create more than one panel.
Budget
Compensation will include a flat makers fee of €200 as well as additional cover of materials and expenses. Please include a breakdown of costs in your tender.
