by - Where: COSI (Center of Science and Industry) at 333 W. Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215.
- When: Now through Labor Day, September 7, 2026.
- Cost: An exhibition-specific timed-entry ticket is required in addition to regular COSI General Admission. Tickets are $15 for non-members and $10 for members. Ultimate Memberships include four free entries.
The Science Behind Pixar at COSI Columbus gives visitors an interactive, behind-the-scenes look at the STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) concepts used to create award-winning animated films. The exhibit features over 50 hands-on stations exploring everything from rendering and rigging to lighting and animation.
- Modeling & Rigging: Learn how artists build digital skeletons and adjust the meshes of characters.
- Animation: Test frame-by-frame movements and understand how animators use cameras and physics to make characters move.
- Lighting & Rendering: Experiment with lighting design and see how computer rendering dictates the mood, shadow, and color of a scene.
- Life-Size Characters: Take photos with beloved characters like Buzz Lightyear, Sulley, and WALL-E.
The Science Behind Pixar is an interactive exhibition that showcases the science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) concepts used by the artists and computer scientists who help bring Pixar’s award-winning films to the big screen.
With more than 50 interactive elements, the exhibition’s eight sections each focus on a step in the filmmaking process to give you an unparalleled view of the production pipeline and concepts used at Pixar every day. Participate in fun, engaging hands-on activities, listen to firsthand accounts from members of the studios’ production teams, and even come face-to-face with re-creations of your favorite Pixar film characters, including Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode, and WALL•E!
Please enjoy these photo’s below from the new exhibit.
