Artificial Intelligence Exhibit Opening at SCI in January 2026
Artificial Intelligence Exhibit Opening at SCI in January 2026 “Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine” invites visitors of all ages to explore what AI is and how it shapes our world.
- Monday October 20, 2025
The Science Center of Iowa (SCI) will launch a new traveling exhibit this winter that brings the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence to life. Opening January 2026, “Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine” is the first major museum exhibition to focus on the reality and relevance of AI in today’s society.
Designed for all ages, the exhibit breaks down complex concepts into engaging, hands-on interactives that explore how machines learn, how they “think,” and how they compare to the human brain. Visitors will test facial recognition software, explore AI-driven art generators, and even try out a musical keyboard that turns anyone into a piano virtuoso.
“AI is no longer science fiction—it’s reshaping everything from how we work and learn to how we live,” said Curt Simmons, President & CEO of the Science Center of Iowa. “This exhibit helps demystify artificial intelligence in a way that's engaging and accessible, empowering Iowans to better understand the technology that’s shaping their future.”
“Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine” was created by The Relayer Group, developers of nationally touring exhibits that fuse innovation, education, and real-world relevance. This exhibit invites visitors to consider the implications of AI and explore its role in everything from self-driving cars to virtual assistants.
“Artificial Intelligence is the single most important technology being developed today . . . by far,” says HP Newquist, the exhibit’s director. “Yet very few people know what AI is or what it does. We want to provide people with a way to understand AI so that it’s real and relevant—not mysterious or frightening.”
EXHIBIT SPONSORS & PARTNERS
This exhibit at the Science Center of Iowa is made possible through the support of Iowa State University,Kemin Industries,Microsoft, and the University of Iowa. Their shared commitment to innovation and education brings cutting-edge learning experiences to our community.
VISITING INFORMATION
“Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine” runs at the Science Center of Iowa through April 2026. The exhibit is included with SCI general admission [$15 for children (2-12), $20 for adults (13-64), $15 for seniors (65+) and free for children under 2.]
SCI is currently open Wednesday through Sundays, and visitors are encouraged to purchase advance tickets online at www.sciowa.org.
About The Relayer Group
“Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine” is an exhibit created by The Relayer Group. The company creates opportunities that bring innovation and technology to consumers of all ages through enriching and educational experiences. It developed AI Trends, the first-ever publication devoted to the commercial application of artificial intelligence, and is also publisher of the newest edition of The Brain Makers, the definitive history of the early AI industry. As an exhibit developer, The Relayer Group co-produced the extraordinarily successful science-of-sound exhibit, “GUITAR: The Instrument that Rocked the World.”
About the Science Center of Iowa
The Science Center of Iowa engages and inspires Iowans along their journey of lifelong science learning. The 110,000-sq. ft. facility located in Downtown Des Moines features dynamic experience platforms, large format theaters and daily interactive science demonstrations, including the NAEYC-accredited SCI Preschool. The Science Center of Iowa also provides educational outreach programs across the state of Iowa. For more information, visit www.sciowa.org.