the project of a lifetime
Scale model trains whirr around a miniature United States. Designing this exhibit was the dream of my youth! Photos (c) Museum of Science and Industry/Dirk Fletcher.
Designed by John Llewellyn in his staff role at MSI, the Great Train Story takes guests along on a transcontinental railway journey in miniature. Illustrating the four main threads of the railroad’s importance to our lives, this exhibition enthralls and captivates people from all walks of life with a spectacular presence.
Creating consensus around an epic new exhibit concept was one of the challenges of the GTS project. John's participatory-sketching-facilitation techniques helped share and shape the vision, and renderings like this were key in garnering support from Museum officials and donors alike.
3500 square feet, over 28 trains in motion from Chicago to Seattle and back...what a project!
A dawn-to-evening lighting program gives the scenes a compelling dimension. This Chicago neighborhood is a composite of vernacular local architectural styles.
Thousands of details delight visitors to the Museum every day, as they envision themselves in the miniature scenes.
At a larger level, the Great Train Story helps the Museum achieve its mission: to inspire the inventive genius in everyone.
