Frequently visitors describe Mindport as a science museum, comparing it to the Exploratorium in San Francisco or OMSI in Portland. We are flattered by such comparisons (particularly since one of our major inspirations was the Exploratorium). A few of our exhibits may be reminiscent of some in those institutions, but our purpose is different.

Important themes at Mindport are exploration, observation, creativity, play, and, last, but not least, fun. The world view commonly referred to as “scientific” is represented here, but we consider it to be only one aspect of a more holistic way of experiencing reality, one which also includes art, and esthetics.

At Mindport we try to dignify the “trivial,” the “silly,” the humorous, and the personal because they are at the root of what it is to be human. Our ability to imagine things unlike those we’ve imagined before is one thing which makes life worth living, and, ironically, is at the root of all the inventiveness which has given us the material products which are supposed to be enriching our existence. We hope the accessibility of Mindport’s exhibits will encourage our visitors to take back their own creativity by making it obvious that sophisticated machinery and electronic equipment are not necessary for human beings to lead fulfilling lives.