Amazon Rising Exhibit
John G. Shedd Aquarium

Chicago, Illinois

Research, Content Development, Interpretive Writing, Interpretive Graphic Design, Habitat Design, Exhibit Design, AV Design

The flood cycle of the Amazon River was at the heart of this story. We needed to invent a large-scale, immersive exhibit experience which would fit sensitively within a 1927 historic structure and occupy fully 1/3 of its footprint. The final experience included rainfall in the public space, a changing and interactive soundscape, interactive video, changing water levels and, for the first time at the Aquarium, an exhibit which included fish, reptiles, amphibians, insects, mammals and a focus on the human cultures that interacted with them. This project won Best Exhibit of the Year from both the American Zoo and Aquarium Association and the American Association of Museums.