The Physics of Sculpture: Building Structures (Ages 6-12) 

Instructor: Paula Nowicki  

Imagination Station featured activity:  Balancing Peacock Feathers & Balancing Gizmos 

• During the first “ice breaker” activity, participants will attempt to balance a large peacock feather in the center of their hand. This will introduce the idea of balance and the center of gravity in an engaging way. When participants complete the task successfully, they can try balancing the feather elsewhere such as on the tip of their finger, their nose, or their elbow.  

• Balancing Gizmos is similar but with more intentional instructions using what they learned in the previous activity. Using a paper Gizmo – our old mascot – and paper clips, participants will experiment to find Gizmo’s center of gravity and what makes him become balanced.  

Join a TMA instructor and Imagination Station Education staff member to build sculptures that explore the physics of balance, tension, and force. They’ll learn about how different materials hold up under force (think gravity and balance) and how artists create sculptures that seem to defy physics. The hands-on activity will involve using lightweight materials to create sculptures that explore kinetic energy or balance using recycled materials. 

April 12th   

10am-12pm 

Location: Main Building Plough Entrance

TMA Art Class Policies 

Before proceeding, please review our reservation policies. 

Class Policies: 

Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and stay for the full duration unless excused by the instructor or in case of an emergency. If you are unable to attend, please inform the Studio Programs Manager. 

Students must obtain permission from the instructor before leaving class for any reason, including restroom breaks, emergencies, or other absences. 

In case of an unexpected departure (e.g., due to illness or emergency), students should notify the instructor immediately. 

For documented medical conditions or other valid reasons that might require frequent absences or accommodations, please discuss these with the Studio Programs Manager at least two weeks before the class starts or indicate them during registration to arrange suitable accommodations. 

What to Bring and Wear: 

All necessary supplies are provided for classes. We recommend wearing clothing that you don’t mind getting stained, as some materials may be permanent. 

End of Class Pick-Up Procedures: 

For safety reasons, parents/guardians must drop off and pick up students under age 15 directly at the classroom door. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. For parking information to assist with this procedure, please refer to our parking policies. 

If emergency contacts are unreachable after class ends and there are no other approved arrangements for the student's departure, Museum security may contact the Toledo Police Department if a minor is still at the Museum 60 minutes after class ends. 

Parking Policy: 

The main parking lot is located off Monroe Street, behind the Green Building. Parking at TMA is free to all visitors thanks to a generous donation from the Taylor Automotive Family, honoring the late Julie Taylor. 

Parents/guardians should not use the Plough Entrance loop for parking. This turnaround is reserved for emergencies and accessibility needs only. 

Want to become a TMA member to receive class discounts? Membership information is available online or at Visitor Services. For class, please enter through the Plough Entrance at the back of the Museum. TMA staff will assist with directing everyone to their classrooms on the first day. Please do not arrive more than 15 minutes before class begins, as students can enter the classroom only 5 minutes before the start time to allow instructors to prepare. 

If you wish to stay at the Museum during class, there is limited seating near our classrooms, or you may explore the Museum galleries during operating hours. For refreshments, visit the Museum Café off Herrick Lobby. Check TMA’s website for operating hours. 

Parking and Museum Map: Plan Your Visit | Toledo Museum of Art

Emergency Policy 

In case of injury or illness, Museum security will provide basic first aid and ensure the student is as comfortable as possible. If professional medical attention is needed, 911 will be called to transport the individual to the nearest hospital. Every effort will be made to notify the student's emergency contacts. 

Class Changes/Cancellations 

If a class must be canceled, registered participants will be notified promptly and given the option to transfer to another class or receive a full refund. 

To withdraw from a class, submit your cancellation request at least two weeks before the class start date. Requests should be sent to: 

Email: [email protected] 

Phone: 419.255.8000 x 8128 

You may transfer to another class within the same semester or receive a refund. Cancellations made less than two weeks before the class start date are non-refundable. 

Medical Needs/Accommodations: 

Please inform us of any allergies, medical conditions, or specific behavioral, physical, emotional, or mental health needs before the class begins. Providing this information will help us support your student effectively during the class. 

Promotional Photography 

Staff may take photographs during classes for promotional and non-commercial purposes. By registering, you grant TMA permission to use images of you or your child in Museum materials.