SAN ANTONIO – Along San Antonio's Broadway Street, museums feature unique and rare exhibits.
While places like the Witte and McNay museums draw plenty of attention, one lesser-known museum offers an experience that is truly unique.
"Welcome to my world," said Dan Suttin, as he opened the door. "This is the Octa-Tetra Museum."
With self-admitted comparisons to the likes of Mr. Magorium (of the Wonder Emporium) and Albert Einstein, Suttin brings a special vibe to his unconventional museum.
"What do you get when you add arts to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Technology)? You get steam. This place is steamy. It's all about steam," said Suttin.
This was a figure of speech, of course, but it begged the question: What is the goal of the Octa-Tetra Museum?
"[It is] for students to come to learn about art, architecture, engineering, design, mathematics and science: all at the same time," said Suttin.
Suttin, who spends most of his days as a math tutor, believes there is more to math and science than just numbers. This thought was backed up by his shirt, which he read aloud.
"Einstein said, 'Imagination is more important than knowledge,'" quoted Suttin.
It is a concept he adheres to and one that attracts students. When a visitor arrives it is an interactive process, with students making geometric models. Step by step, Suttin makes the process fun and imaginative with lessons that lead up to the museum's main attraction: the Midi Mega Tetra.
The large design is made from 10,000 pieces of cardboard and tens of thousands of paper clips it took Suttin 15 months to construct.
"There's tons of math in there and I give a lot of lessons about it," said Suttin.
The Octa-Tetra Museum is located at 1100 Broadway, Suite 305. You can book at appointment at the museum by calling 210-884-4897.