North America Quick Takes | July/August 2021
The Natural World and Digital Media Merge in Colorado Exhibit
An immersive art experience at the Denver Pavilions in Colorado blends interactive environments and large-scale art installations. The natural world and digital media merge in “Earth Illuminated,” highlighting the planet’s beauty from the air, land, and sea. Covering 13,000 square feet, the colorful exhibition presents sets designed for visitors to take photos and shoot video of its unusual perspectives and props.
Guests will encounter larger-than-life butterflies and other insects inside oversized gardens. Visitors can also journey under the sea or venture into an area offering a wide-angle view of Earth. All the scenes are punctuated by projections, special effects, theatrical lighting, and creative sound design.
Blazen Illuminations designed, developed, and produced the exhibit. The company, in coordination with Distortions Unlimited, presented an exhibition named “Distortions Monster World” last year also at the Denver Pavilions. “Earth Illuminated” will be open to the public through 2021. Tickets are $25 for guests 12 and older, $18 for those 6 to 12, and free for those 5 and younger.
Universal Opens Two New Merchandise Concepts in Florida
Universal Orlando Resort’s two new stores in Universal CityWalk harness two current retail trends: vintage and housewares. The Universal Legacy Store showcases a selection of merchandise sparked by retired attractions. The 30-year history of Universal Orlando is front and center with retro-themed merchandise celebrating older rides, like “Jaws” and “Back to the Future: The Ride.” The store décor includes artist renderings, blueprints, concept designs, and construction photos pulled from the vaults at Universal Creative, along with older props.
Meanwhile, the 8,300-square-foot flagship Universal Studios Store now offers more than 2,000 products, including collectible merchandise from “Jurassic World,” “Despicable Me,” and other movies and attractions. The store also harnesses the popular trend of offering branded homewares products. For example, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter home collection features Hogwarts-inspired drinkware, serving plates, drink coasters, and more.
