Interactive exhibition offers immersive encounters with spiders at MAGNT

Spiders will be on show in the upcoming exhibition at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) on the shores of Fannie Bay from 15th December to 28th April 2019.

 “This hands-on interactive exhibition allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of spiders. It features fascinating exhibits and interactive displays, along with live spiders and nearly 200 additional specimens that will inspire curiosity about the natural world and give a sense of wonder about the animals themselves.” said MAGNT Director, Marcus Schutenko.
 
Spiders are intriguing animals. They are able to spin webs, climb, swim, dance, fish, parachute and even drop a limb when threatened and then grow it back!

The exhibition offers face-to-face experiences with live spiders including Australian Tarantulas, Giant Water Spiders, and deadly Funnel-webs (pictured above) and Redbacks.

Suitable for the whole family, the exhibition includes full body experiences that involve competing in a dance-off with a Peacock Spider using gaming technology, holding a virtual spider in your hand, testing the strength of silk, feeling web vibrations and experiencing the jaws of a spider.

Spiders are found in nearly every habitat on Earth and Australia is home to about 2000 different types of them, with over 600 species being found in the Northern Territory. The incredible spider diversity and environments can be explored through touchscreens and audio-visuals. 

Budding young scientists can learn spider anatomy by virtually dissecting and viewing spiders from the inside out. The latest spider research is also presented, which highlights recent discoveries and dispels some of the common spider myths.

There will be special spider related children’s activities. By downloading the Spiders AR app to Apple or Android devices, visitors will be able to use augmented reality (AR) technology to bring six Australian spiders to life, right on their smartphone or tablet. With unique 3D content the hidden world of spiders can be accessed through specially designed promotional material.

MAGNT is proud to be partnering with Roadside Assistance & Insurance (AANT) for the Spiders exhibition which offers current AANT members Adult tickets at Concession rates upon presentation of their valid membership card.

“This is a fascinating exhibition and AANT is proud to be a sponsor” said AANT Chief Executive Anthony Hill. “If you’re looking for something different to do with the kids this school holidays, we encourage members to take the opportunity of the discounted tickets to go and see these amazing spiders up close and personal.”

The Spiders exhibition is jointly developed and toured by the Australian Museum and Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre.

For more information go to magnt.net.au