Creative Machines , the Tucson-based design and fabrication firm known for its large-scale, interactive, public art pieces, is building a not-for-profit science garden and social club on the south side of Tucson.
Reyna Preciado Dubbed Second Sky, the project will be located next to Creative Machines’ headquarters at 4141 E. Irvington Road, and will feature an adventure playground, event space, and an immersive digital environment, with “machines” envisioned by company founder, Joseph O’Connell.
O’Connell was inspired to create Second Sky after hosting a number of successful field trips to Create Machines. As an artist and a parent, he saw the potential in creating a space where children could play and explore freely, and where parents could enjoy themselves and unwind at the end of the day.
He also saw an opportunity to create something different.
Reyna Preciado O’Connell talked about how Second Sky will address inequities, such as a lack of after-school programs, lack of public space, lack of exposure to S.T.E.M. careers, and the high proportion of single-caregiver households, and poverty.