In the Art & Science Studio on the 2nd floor

The California Science Center developed this new exhibit in collaboration with the Getty Conservation Institute. It blends science and art to explore the destructive effects of light exposure on priceless museum treasures and family photos. It also offers suggestions for mitigating the damage.

FADE's interactive exhibits explain the nature of light and why it permanently changes the appearance of many objects. Using their own energy, guests can create traveling waves of different lengths to better understand the relationship between wavelength and energy. Then through an AV program, guests can zoom in and learn how light damages materials at the atomic level.

Visitors see dramatic evidence of light damage through photographs, works of art and a collection of everyday items. "This exhibit serves to increase awareness about how we're losing our past through light exposure." said Science Center curator Ken Phillips. "We had an exceptional opportunity in creating this exhibit with the Getty Conservation Institute which, in collaboration with the University of Texas El Paso (UTEP), shared state-of-the-art research on this topic."

The exhibit is free.