Orchid Island Exploration

Saturday, April 19 | 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Join us on Saturday, April 19, from 1:00 to 3:00pm for our Orchid Island Exploration Event! Step into the rich culture of Orchid Island and the Tao people in our newly unveiled exhibition.

This special event will celebrate the collection of artifacts such as models, tools, and cordage all curated by Dr. Richard Stamps, an esteemed archeologist who conducted fieldwork on Orchid Island in the mid-1970s.

Experiences during this afternoon of discovery and cultural connection include:

  • Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony: Celebrate this new Institute collection and kick off the fun with an official ribbon-cutting.
  • Keynote Presentation: Hear from Dr. Stamps as he shares firsthand accounts of his time on Orchid Island and insights into the Tao people’s culture.
  • Cultural Activities: Engage with interactive and hands-on activities hosted by local organizations including Taiwan Center for Mandarin Learning, Michigan Chinese Educators Association, and Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors.
  • And much more!

Experience a rare opportunity to explore an extraordinary collection, celebrate diverse cultures, and learn about histories from across the globe. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an anthropology buff, or simply a curious mind, this event will deepen your appreciation for the world around you and its rich heritage.

Orchid Island Exploration activities are FREE with purchase of general admission.

Take a journey into the past and present of Orchid Island!

The Science of Design

Saturday, May 10 | 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Cranbrook Institute of Science on Saturday, May 10, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at The Science of Design, a one-of-a-kind jewelry workshop!

Experience creativity, craftsmanship, and a touch of science as award-winning jeweler Matthew Gross of MHG Jewelry Studio introduces you to the science behind design and shares his innovative approach to arranging shapes into visually stunning patterns.

Experiences during this event workshop include:

  • Artistic Arrangements: Experiment with basic shapes to create picture-perfect patterns
  • A Rare Look: Explore exquisite jewelry and art from the Institute’s vault collection
  • Design Direction: Learn practical jewelry design and artistic techniques
  • A Treasure to Keep: Leave with a personally crafted pattern design as a special keepsake, along with a small project inspired by Ancient Egyptian necklaces
  • Refresh & Create: Enjoy light refreshments as you immerse yourself in the world of design

Celebrate the science of design and the joy of creativity this Mother’s Day!

This event is recommended for designers ages 12 and up. Participants ages 12 to 17 must be accompanied by a registered adult chaperone throughout the entire workshop.

Tickets to this exclusive event are $42.50 for members and $50.00 for non-members. Tickets are non-refundable. Pre-registration is required and will close on May 7, 2025. Registration is limited to 25 participants, so reserve your spot today!