Kemiaa koko elämä (Life Is Chemistry) exhibition was opened to the public at Tekniikan museo (Museum of Technology) in Helsinki on 14.11.2007. This exhibition presents an overview of Finnish chemistry and chemical industry.
Exhibition is part of the museum’s basic exhibition focusing on Finnish industries. It has been put together by Chemical Industry Federation of Finland and various companies and organisations in the chemicals industry in cooperation with the Museum of Technology. Kemira is also involved in this project.
A couple of hundred invited guests assembled at the museum on the previous evening for the opening ceremonies. The exhibition was opened by Hannu Vornamo, Director General of Chemical Industry Federation of Finland.
The new basic exhibition replaces the already over 20 years old previous exhibition, which was dismantled last year and placed in storage. Kemiaa koko elämä exhibition is unlikely to become as long-lived as its predecessor. Its lifespan is estimated to be 10 years.
The innovativeness of the chemicals industry has considerably increased since the 1980s. It has become more demanding and more expert. “The focus of functions has shifted from test tubes to computerized modelling,” said Hannu Vornamo.
The new exhibition displays everyday solutions and Finnish innovations in chemistry ranging from tar burning to the present day. Among the questions it answers are the chemical composition of the human body, how new drugs are made, how waste water is cleaned, and what kinds of remedial substances can be found in nature.
Instead of providing a conventional museum presentation, Kemiaa koko elämä exhibition strives to produce insights to the visitors. The exhibition items are interactive and learning paths have been set up in them for learners of all ages. Next March will see the completion of a special InnoApaja workshop dedicated to creative thinking.
“As an institution, museums must rid themselves of their dusty image. We have to compete for people’s leisure time.” Indeed, Marjo Mikkola, the museum’s director, said that the motto of this exhibition is “Wonder, become enthusiastic, innovate.”
Maarit Seeling