New 'immersive exhibition' about the universe launches at Bradford Science and Media Museum
YOU:MATTER is launching as part of Bradford's year as City of Culture
Last updated 3rd Apr 2025
AN installation designed to “celebrate awe and wonder” of the natural world has opened in Bradford as part of the district’s year as City of Culture.
YOU:MATTER opens in the National Science and Media Museum today, and uses immersive art installations to explore life, the universe and everything.
The origins of live in the big bang, links between all forms of life on Earth and how man and nature rely on each other are among the heady themes in the exhibition.
But the work, by arts collective Marshmallow Laser Feast, works in a way that will appeal to all ages, even very young children who might not understand the ideas presented.
The installations include a huge projection of the sun, NASA images of how our planet “breathes,” and an interactive piece that lets people see how their breath is used by trees and nature.
Visitors can place their head in a cloud and listen to a sound installation detailing how we are linked to the water cycle, and use a “selfie station” to see how they fit into the natural world.
The installations are designed in such a way that they will appeal to people eager to learn more about the scientific themes, those looking for a unique visual experience, children looking for some exciting things to look at and people keen to get some impressive selfies.
Rob McNicholas, Director of Marshmallow Laser Feast, is from Wakefield and has fond memories of visiting the Science and Media Museum.
He said the collective designed the installation to be more family-friendly than some of their other works, saying: “It had to be an experience for everyone.”
He added: “We had to instil that connection, that we are all made of ‘star stuff.’ We are living in a unique moment in time, and that should be celebrated.”
The installation has environmental themes, but Mr McNicholas says the aim is to highlight the wonder of nature, rather than focus too much on concerns about the future.
He said: “It lets people see the world in a different light. We want to spark curiosity rather than create an apocalyptic message. We want to celebrate the awe and wonder of the natural world.”
Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director at Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture said: “Through immersive technology and Marshmallow Laser Feast’s innovative thinking, YOU:MATTER is the story of Bradford’s people and their place in the cosmos.”
The installation will run throughout 2025, and will be followed by the opening of more permanent galleries elsewhere in the museum this Summer.