The Art of Invention celebrates seismologist and polymath, John Milne

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We love the sound of this new exhibition, opening at Quay Arts tomorrow (Saturday). Ed


This exciting new exhibition celebrates the 100th anniversary of the death of famous seismologist and polymath, John Milne (1850 – 1913) who lived at Shide on the Isle of Wight for many years. Milne is revered in Japan, where he also lived for 20+ years, teaching and researching earthquakes and, most importantly, how to measure them.

The exhibition, inspired by Milne’s unique spirit of invention, will involve functional and dysfunctional objects and devices, designed and engineered by a select group of artists working alongside students from IW schools and colleges, in and outside of the gallery space.

‘Make, Shake, Quake’
It will include the winning invention from our ‘Make, Shake, Quake’ school competition, a giant reinterpretation of John Milne’s horizontal seismograph created by Island inventor Daniel Roberts with students from Carisbrooke College, and a model based on Rube Goldberg’s famous fantasy machines, as well as Adhocism’ creations – objects designed to perform a totally new task and given a new lease of life through the power of invention!

Also come and check out some of Milne’s drawings of his inventions made in the early 1900’s, on loan by IW County Record Office.

Opening event
Remember to join us in The West Gallery on Sat 27 Apr 1.30pm – 3pm as we celebrate the opening of ‘The Art of Invention’ exhibition with the performance of a song co-created by local musicians and Island young people!

And its FREE!