We are thrilled to announce that we are now stocking the new wooden automata models designed by renowned artist Rob Ives. The models will be available in the Museum or from our online shop.

Rob Ives is a British automata maker who creates intricate and whimsical mechanical sculptures that are beloved by people of all ages. His work is characterized by its attention to detail, its sense of humour, and its ability to capture the imagination of viewers.

Rob began making automata in the early 1990s after discovering a book on the subject. He was immediately drawn to the art form, which combines engineering, sculpture, and storytelling in a unique way. He began creating his own designs, experimenting with different materials and techniques until he had developed a distinctive style that was all his own.

One of the things that makes Rob’s work so special is his attention to detail. He carefully crafts each piece, ensuring that every element is just right. He also pays close attention to the mechanics of his automata, using his engineering background to create machines that are not only beautiful to look at but also function perfectly.

Another hallmark of Rob’s work is his sense of humour. Many of his automata are designed to be funny or whimsical, with characters that dance, play music, or perform other silly actions. This sense of playfulness makes his work appealing to people of all ages, from young children who delight in the movement of the machines to adults who appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity involved.

In addition to creating his own automata, Ives also shares his knowledge and skills with others. He has written several books on the subject, including “Making Mechanical Marvels In Wood” and “Paper Engineering and Pop-ups For Dummies.” He also offers workshops and classes, teaching others how to create their own automata using his techniques.

Overall, Rob Ives is a true master of the art of automata making. His work is both beautiful and fun, and his passion for the craft is evident in everything he creates. Whether you’re a fan of mechanical sculpture, engineering, or just good old-fashioned fun, Rob’s automata are sure to delight and inspire you.

Rob Ives Mad Factory

Looking for Christmas present ideas? We offer gift tickets in all shapes and sizes. Buy a loved one a ticket to come and visit our MAD Museum.

Find out more here!

Our marble kits have been much more popular than we thought!

Every day our team are making more kits and trying very hard to keep up with the demand. If you would like to purchase a kit before Christmas and the kit you want is showing as “sold out”, all we can say is please keep trying. We are a small team but we are working as fast as we can on this every day.

As soon as a batch of kits is finished, we automatically update the stock on our website. We are trying our best, thank you for understanding.

https://www.madfactory.co.uk/collections/marble-machines

We sell over 150 gadgets and gizmos in our museum’s gift shop, most of which incorporate science, art, engineering or design.
Pick from an eclectic assortment of Windup Toys, Sound Machines, Marble Runs, Robots, IQ Tests, Weird Science Experiments and much more!

Perfect for little kids and big kids alike! Whether you’re shopping for stocking fillers, presents or party gifts; The MAD Museum’s shop is full of quirky toys and games to help inspire creativity, encourage building and make science fun!

Photos are being taken at MAD on Friday 28th December, from 1pm until 3pm.

On Friday 28th December from 1pm until 3pm we will have a photographer in The MAD Museum taking photographs of exhibits, our visitors and the museum (inside and outside).

We cannot guarantee you will be included in photographs during this time, our photographer will be taking photos of the museum’s environment during this time. The photographs taken are intended for use in future marketing activities by The MAD Museum. This includes on The MAD Museum website, social media platforms, literature, leaflets, adverts and any artwork.

If you are visiting The MAD Museum within this 2-hour window, a member of staff will ask you to read and sign a consent form upon arrival. This form will ask whether you consent to (a) photos of yourself and your family/ friends being taken, and (b) the use and storage of these photos by The MAD Museum.

If you would rather not be identifiable in photographs, it is your choice. Please make this clear upon arrival to The MAD Museum. You will be given a brightly coloured, sticker to wear so the photographer will know not to make you identifiable in photos (this means your face will be unrecognisable and undetectable).
You have the right to request to see a copy of the photographs we hold about you and to request corrections or deletions of the photographs. You can ask The MAD Museum to stop using your images at any time, in which case it will not be used in future publications but many continue to appear in publications already in circulation.

If you would like to discuss this matter further, please contact us.