Enter a secret world of science and spectacle

HOUSTON – Magic—illusory feats of wonder that dazzle the eye and confound expectations—has fascinated humanity for centuries. Mesmerized by the masters of illusion who perform this mysterious craft, we’re drawn to the spectacle, curious to discover “How did they do that?”

Though their methods are enshrouded in secrecy, magicians combine the art of performance with a variety of scientific disciplines, including math, physics and psychology, to create their dazzling effects and fascinating illusions.

With a touch of hocus-pocus and a dash of abracadabra, the Houston Museum of Natural Science pulls a spectacular new exhibition out of its hat—Magic: The Science of Wonder, opening Friday, February 26, 2010. The extraordinary show examines how science and magic are intertwined through more than 100 fascinating artifacts and mesmerizing live performances. Magic is the perfect subject to inspire people of all ages, especially kids, to learn about the science behind magic and...

Fabergé: Imperial Jeweler to the Tsars

New exhibition featuring rare, spectacular designs of Peter Carl Fabergé opening at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Nov. 13

HOUSTON—Discover the spectacular designs of Peter Carl Fabergé, the master goldsmith and legendary jeweler still celebrated for his inventive designs and meticulous craftsmanship, through a special exhibition, Fabergé: Imperial Jeweler to the Tsars opening at the Houston Museum of Natural Science Nov. 13, 2009.

“There have been many Faberge exhibitions around the world over the last several decades. However, very few have showcased some of the most rare and spectacular masterpieces he created, which are on display in this special exhibition,” said Joel A. Bartsch, president of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. “The emphasis here is on the objects of luxury that he created—common, everyday objects that he developed with a sense of turning the everyday into the extraordinary. For example, visitors will see numerous...

Spirits and Headhunters: Vanishing Worlds of the Amazon

Explore disappearing cultures of South America in a new exhibit at HMNS:

Houston—Travel to the secluded areas of the South American rainforest and explore the contemporary indigenous cultures of the Amazon. Discover the exceptionally beautiful handcrafted artwork and ceremonial headpieces of the remote tribes of South America in Spirits and Headhunters: Vanishing Worlds of the Amazon, opening at the Houston Museum of Natural Science on Oct. 9, 2009. With over 150 rare and extraordinary objects on display, this new exhibition offers insight into the unique cultures and traditions of the Ka’apor, Karajá, Kayapó, Tapirapé, Ticuna and other Amazonian tribes.

Spirits and Headhunters will feature artifacts such as masks, body ornaments, full body costumes, basketry, weapons, pottery, textiles, and elaborate feather headdresses. “The intricate nature of the feather work on display is not only a testimony to the talent...