The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, also known as the MAC, is located in Browne’s addition near downtown Spokane and currently houses six different exhibits. The museum opened in 1916 and, according to their website, is “the largest cultural organization in the Inland Northwest, serving more than 100,000 visitors a year.” The MAC is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
There are four main museum exhibits to showcase for students interested in checking out the art and history of Spokane.
In Gallery A of the museum there is the “1924: Sovereignty, Leadership, and the Indian Citizenship Act” exhibit which details the history of the Indian Citizenship Act and the first American Indian Congresses. The exhibit highlights Spokane’s personal history with Indian Citizenship and speaks to tribal issues and self-determination. This exhibit will be held through Feb. 2, 2025.
Gallery B holds the “Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art from the Permanent Collection” exhibit which features women artists. The work is centered around “leading artists and art movements in the Inland and Pacific Northwest” and showcases a variety of mediums and artistic styles bringing together over 140 years of women’s work. This exhibit will be held through March 9, 2025.
Gallery C can satisfy any curiosity about Spokane’s World Fair of 1974, being host to the museum’s largest archival collection. The exhibit is called “It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later.” This exhibit guides visitors through the planning, construction, and events around Expo ’74 giving light to “the familiar, nostalgic, and perhaps lesser-known stories” of the World Fair. This exhibit will be held through Jan. 20, 2025.
Gallery E highlights one specific artist Joe Feddersen and is called “Joe Feddersen: Earth, Water, Sky.” The exhibit showcases the variety of his work including paintings, ceramics, weaving and glass. The collection is considered a “testament to Feddersen’s love for the land, water, and sky that have bounded his world, both physically and metaphorically.” This exhibit will be held through Jan. 5, 2025.
For college students the museum’s ticket prices are $10 but there is a way to request free museum tickets through the Spokane County Library district.
Students who have a library card with any public library in Spokane can find the Museum and Cultural passes link on the library website’s home page. Simply click on that link and find the section titled “Reserving a Family Museum Pass” where you click on the “reserve a pass” hyperlink. The passes can be reserved up to 30 days in advance of your visit and can provide admission for two adults. There is only one pass available for each day, so it is best to reserve your tickets ahead of your museum trip.
The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture offers a glimpse into the diversity and history of Spokane. This museum is a great opportunity for students, especially with available free tickets, to explore Spokane’s artistic contributions and culture.
