OMSI ‘Maker Faire’ fun not dampened by drizzle

Even with passing rain showers, see why many outer East Portland families spent time at OMSI to share in the joy of making stuff …

A hint of rain doesn’t stop people coming to this year’s “Mini Maker Faire” at OMSI.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Although it drizzled on Saturday and poured on Sunday – September 7 and 8 – that didn’t stop people from flocking to the “Mini Maker Faire”, an annual event at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI).

Set up on the north OMSI parking lot, the Portland Mini Maker Faire’s 100 exhibitors ran the gamut from low-tech – such as origami, knife forging, beekeeping, ice sculptures and blacksmithing – to high-tech, with demonstrations of a Tesla coil, 3D printing, and virtual reality.

Adam Creighton, of ACE America, demonstrates a clean-burning fuel-flexible household cookstove which that also generates electricity.

Demonstrating his craft and art of prestidigitation, at the Society of American Magicians Assembly #59 exhibit, is magician Damien Chance.

“This is a celebration of do-it-yourself, learning, creating technology, and crafting,” grinned OMSI Events Manager Melony Beaird.

“It didn’t take long for our ‘Maker Faire’ to become a huge local event that embodies the true Portland spirit with its sheer variety of makers, from engineers to artists to scientists to crafters,” Beaird told East Portland News.

“The passion these ‘makers’ have for their hobbies, avocations, and businesses is obvious; and, they love sharing their know-how with guests – encouraging and inspiring visitors to try new things,” enthused Beaird.

In her watery home, “Una the Mermaid” waves hello to guests, along with OMSI Events Manager Melony Beaird.

Strolling over to an 800 gallon water tank set upon a 22-foot trailer, Beaird introduced us to a new feature this year – “Una the Mermaid” – who greeted us with a wave. “I’ve got to say, this is one of my favorite things this year,” she confided.

“It’s important for us to hold events like this, because this fair fosters OMSI’s mission of science, technology, math and arts education math,” explained Beaird. “Inspiring kids to get involved in science, especially through art projects, can be a way that makes technology feel more accessible to them.”

In the Oregon Potters Association booth, Ruyaa Haqq and mom Mandii Haqq try making objects out of clay.

And, for adults, the Portland Mini Maker Fair is “the perfect place to let your ‘inner nerd’ come out to play and learn, no matter what your age.”

See what’s happening at OMSI now, by visiting their website: CLICK HERE.

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