Hosted by local experiences company Yuup, Space Shanty is a new interactive installation inspired by Bristol’s long-standing ties to the sea and stars, which is coming to M Shed this summer.
Space Shanty will transform one of Bristol’s most iconic harbourside venues into a maze of interactive installations, digital artworks, and historical artefacts.
‘Space Shanty’ will include a hands-on making area and interactive elements, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in this celestial experience.
At the heart of Space Shanty is Bemmie the Ratronaut, Bristol’s first Space Rat. From stowing away on Bristol’s ships to exploring distant planets, Bemmie shares his journey through video screens, audio snippets, and augmented reality, offering a glimpse into his interplanetary escapades and introducing visitors to space-themed shanties.
Commissioned by Dreamy Place and created by D-Unit, the event runs across six weeks to coincide with the school’s summer break, celebrating the city’s maritime heritage, while uncovering its less-known connection to the cosmos.
The installation has been made possible by Bristol-based talent; D-Unit, in collaboration with Dreamy Place, and lead artists Megan Broadmeadow & Edward Metcalf have been working with Bristol Museums and Aerospace Bristol to create the story.
What to expect
Start your journey in the floating harbour and explore how the stars guided sailors across the ocean. Uncover artefacts and stories of Bristol’s work in the world of space exploration through exploratory play. Discover interactive portals and wormholes that will catapult you into deep space where you’ll meet characters and hear songs of communities who live on alien planets.
Accessibility and inclusion
M Shed is accessible for wheelchair users and customers using pushchairs or prams. There is a level entrance to all entrances to the museum, galleries and cafe.
For pick ups and drop offs to access the venue there is a road at the rear of M Shed (Museum Street).
Please find a list below of other facilities available:
- You will find a reception desk with a section at wheelchair-user height and induction loop at the venue.
- Two adult-sized wheelchairs are available for loan and assistance dogs are welcome.
- Three wheelchair accessible lifts with spoken announcements and tactile buttons (two are fire evacuation lifts).
- Accessible toilets on all floors (some with right hand and some with left hand transfer).
- A free standing adult changing bench with a free standing hoist, located in the ground floor accessible toilet.
- Assistance dogs welcome.
Audience target/s
Everybody welcome
Audience type / suitability
Space Shanty is a family exhibition. Entertaining for children and adults. All ages are welcome.
Organiser
M Shed
