We ride an art installation

In this photo update, we do something completely different than usual. We ventured to North Adams, Massachusetts to the MASS MoCA museum. The reason was to see a limited time exhibition by artist EJ Hill titled Brake Run Helix. The exhibit features freestanding sculptures, paintings and Brava!, a prototype roller coaster from Skyline Attractions. Yes, you read that correctly!

The ride itself is great fun! The ride only operates six or even times a day and seats one rider (it's an art installation). There is no lift hill, the ride vehicle needs to be lifted up using a winch. The coaster is designed for the gallery it was installed with where you board from a second floor balcony. You are strapped in with only a seatbelt and are provided several handles to grab onto. You are allowed to ride hands up (but not hands to the side), but I opted to grab on after having just signed an extensive waiver. The coaster train is slowed down via a magnetic brake not unlike how the newer Screaming Swings decelerate.

Visiting MASS MoCA to check out Brava! is truly a unique experience that is a once in a lifetime sort of thing. You too can experience Brake Run Helix (and the rest of this wonderful museum) for yourself still. The exhibition currently will run at least through January 2024. If you choose to visit, make sure to make a reservation first on the museum's website.

Special thanks to Richard Bannister for providing a few action shots of me traveling where few have traveled before!