The Forge

Science, technology, engineering and math are at the heart of making things. The Museum’s new permanent makerspace, The Forge, harnesses the power of the maker movement, celebrates innovation and encourages guests to roll up their sleeves to create. Part showroom and part workshop, The Forge both celebrates and demonstrates the process of design and fabrication.

The WestRock Gallery in The Forge is a showroom. Featuring inventive product displays and interactive stations such as a 500 multi-colored programmable lighting piece, the WestRock Gallery introduces guests to tools and materials while inspiring them to work with their hands. A workshop nestled within The Forge comprised of the Sharp Design Studio, a workroom and a machine shop takes guests to the next level by giving them the chance to participate in hands-on workshops that emphasize tool utilization and skill development.

Sleek, clean, modern and bright, The Forge is sure to spark new ideas and instill the idea that anything is possible.

Activities in The Forge 

All Museum guests can enjoy the WestRock Gallery during Museum operating hours. The workshop portion of The Forge will have scheduled hours. Below is an upcoming schedule of activities in The Forge. 

As we reopen The Forge, we will begin with Maker Workshops at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. There will be no Maker Challenges initially. We will also offer members-only open making time on Saturdays. 

Maker Workshops are facilitated experiences with limited guests that result in a take-home item. Advance registration is required for Maker Workshops and can be done in person at the Guest Services desk the day of the workshop. Space will be limited to 12 guests in a workshop. All participants must be 8 years old or older and participants under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. September's schedule of Maker Workshops is available in the block below. The full list of Maker Workshops we may offer, including tools and skills used can be found here. 

Members-only open making time gives Museum members more hours to flex their creative muscles! More information about members-only open making time is available in the block below.