Mystus Founder and Director

Actively developing interactive exhibits since 1981, Matthew Bates has been a key player in the creation of many interactive exhibits, primarily for the museum environment. Throughout this time, Matthew has developed a comprehensive approach to exhibitmaking.

After graduation from the University of Toronto with an honors degree in Physics and Astronomy, Matthew worked in astronomy research. Later, he went on to join the Ontario Science Centre (OSC) as an exhibit developer. During this time, he played an integral part in the development of several major exhibitions, including the China show, The Artist as a Young Machine the Food show, and the Chaos, Sport and Psychology show.

Some of Matthew's early contributions involved microprocessor control, an area that eventually added a new level of intuitive interaction to the exhibit medium.

In 1989, Matthew spearheaded experiments in alternative exhibit development processes at the OSC. These activities expressed his dedication to keeping the exhibit "product" in sync with the original exhibit "concept". This action gave birth to a process where the personal responsibility of the exhibitmaker is linked to an emphasis on prototyping and visitor testing.

In 1991, Matthew established Mystus Exhibits, as a way of extending the concept of integrated exhibit design and fabrication. Through Mystus, he offers his unique exhibitmaking expertise to an international market.

Since 1991 Mystus Exhibits has grown to be an internationally recognized supplier of interactive exhibits and components. Under the direction of Matthew Bates, Mystus has constantly developed new exhibits, new techniques and new capabilities.