From simulated hot-air balloon rides to undersea submersible vehicles and other epic journeys of discovery, the National Geographic Presents: Earth Explorers exhibition showcases the extraordinary wonders of our planet, highlights the work of National Geographic explorers and also demonstrates the creative versatility of exhibition producer GES.
Running now through September at the National Geographic Museum in Washington, D.C., National Geographic Presents: Earth Explorers has visited nine museums since it opened in 2013. The National Geographic Museum is the exhibition’s 10th stop in an expected 20-city tour. GES and National Geographic worked together for 12 months to develop the core concepts of the 6,000-square-foot exhibition, which GES then designed and fabricated.
“Our challenge with Earth Explorers was to bring a totally different and dynamic approach to discovering our planet, and we learned that the scientists and explorers of National Geographic held the key,” said Eddie Newquist, chief creative officer and EVP at GES. “Working with National Geographic allowed us to develop brand-new ways to put visitors right into the shoes of these amazing men and women as they unlock the mysteries of the world around us.”
“The design for Earth Explorers is completely unique,” added Kathryn Keane, vice president for National Geographic Exhibitions. “This is the only exhibition that features the world through the eyes of these National Geographic explorers, and we hope it will inspire a whole new generation to be more curious about the world—and to dare to explore it.”
The exhibition comprises six key themed areas: Base Camp, which includes an off-road vehicle used by filmmakers and scientists in the field; Polar Regions, including an interactive Arctic cabin; Oceans, featuring a deep-sea submersible; Rain Forests, where visitors experience an outdoor lab; Mountains and Caves, with mountain animals and a crystal cave; and African Savannah, simulating a balloon ride that demonstrates how scientists study animal migrations.
“GES had the task of taking the entire wide world of National Geographic and making it easily navigable and completely immersive,” Newquist said. “We’re tremendously proud of what we’ve accomplished.”
GES has created immensely popular worldwide exhibits – both permanent and traveling – with far-reaching themes, ranging from the magic and wizardry of Harry Potter™: The Exhibition; to awe-inspiring sights of AVATAR: Discover Pandora, based on one of the most popular films of all time; to the majesty of New York City’s World Trade Center complex.
