Science World’s award-winning Creative Technology Gallery, developed in partnership with DigiBC and co-presented by RBC and Beedie, has launched its second exhibition. Following the success of its debut experience, Dream Builder: The Shattered Isles, the gallery now invites visitors to step into the vibrant world of animation. Animation Adventure with Molly of Denali™ is inspired by the acclaimed animated series produced by GBH Kids and Vancouver’s own Atomic Cartoons.
Guided by the spirited heroine Molly Mabray, a 10-year-old Alaska Native girl, the exhibition showcases and demystifies the art and science of animation. From early storyboards to final effects, visitors can discover the role of creative technologists and the cultural richness that shapes Molly’s adventures, celebrating Alaska Native values, language, and traditions as they learn.
The featured episode is “Light Up the Night”, following Molly and her friends as they attempt to master a particularly challenging ice skating move called the “backwards-spinny-turny thing.” In this journey, visitors will discover how animation is crafted and hear insights from the creators themselves.
As in Dream Builder, the exhibition is split into three rooms, each with a unique purpose.
Room 1: Dream
Enter the fictional town of Oyah, which takes its visual inspiration from the majestic beauty of Mount Denali and cozy Alaskan homes. Explore Alaska Native values such as “all things are connected,” browse rustic postcards, and meet Molly’s friends at the Denali Trading Post.
Room 2: Build
In Build, visitors become the animators. At three interactive kiosks, Molly’s world can be brough to life through Storyboard & Timing, Animation, and FX & Compositing. Dive deeper with Developer Diaries, where the show’s creators share behind-the-scenes artistry and storytelling secrets.
Room 3: Play
The magical ending scene of “Light Up the Night” closes the experience. Surrounded by a 360-degree projection of the Northern Lights and their evolution from sunset to nighttime, visitors can skate across colourful snowball hot spots that burst into dazzling light.
To learn more about Creative Technology Gallery, visit the Science World website. Read about the first exhibition on BC Creates and get an insight into the way Creative Technology Gallery connects science, technology, art, and community in an interview with co-creator Jeanne Marie Owens.
