Tag: Museum of Northern Arizona

May at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2026 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

May brings a sense of anticipation at the Museum of Northern Arizona as we prepare for a vibrant summer season of exhibitions, programs, and other opportunities to connect with the Colorado Plateau. Before the busy months ahead, we invite you to enjoy a special start to the season with a colorful new exhibition and a day dedicated to celebrating museums as places of discovery and community.

Artist Hopid Unveiled, opens May 16 in the Courtyard Gallery and highlights the groundbreaking collective formed in 1973 by Hopi artists Michael Kabotie, Delbridge Honanie, Terrance Talaswaima, Neil David Sr., and Milland Lomakema. Drawn from MNA’s fine art collection, including recent acquisitions, the exhibition explores how these artists created bold contemporary visuals rooted in Hopi life, tradition, and storytelling. Presented in three thematic installations, the exhibition offers fresh perspectives on modern identity and cultural continuity.

We also look forward to celebrating International Museum Day on May 16 with free admission and activities for all ages. From hands-on art and science experiences to touch tables, guided tours, and family-friendly exploration throughout the Museum, it’s a chance to experience MNA as a place of creativity, learning, and connection.

I hope you’ll join us at the Museum as we welcome the season ahead.

Mary Kershaw

Executive Director & CEO

Museum of Northern Arizona

April at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2026 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

Spring is a time for growth and renewal. I invite you to make a visit to the Museum of Northern Arizona a part of your Spring, as I most certainly will.

Our exhibitions and programs focus on expanding knowledge and inspiring creativity focused on the very special part of the world that is the Colorado Plateau. Many of our visitors tell us they come to the museum to learn something new, to be inspired, and to connect to heritage and community. Hearing that from our visitors makes my heart sing, and inspires our staff in their efforts to bring life-enriching experiences to our communities.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Party on the Plateau Tickets Now Available!

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2026 • Comments Off

Tickets are now available for MNA’s annual fundraiser and Flagstaff’s premier summer party, the Party on the Plateau! Our 2026 event celebrates the Route 66 Centennial and the Museum’s Wagon Road to Mother Roadexhibition.

I hope you will join us for an evening of fun and celebration, including a happy hour on our patio in the pines, dinner next to the Rio de Flag canyon, and fundraising activities that will support MNA’s mission all year round.

If you can’t make it to the Party but would still like to contribute to MNA’s success, your donation today will support our mission – and our Party on the Plateau fundraising goal! Thank you.

March at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2026 • Comments Off

March is a wonderful time to reconnect with the Colorado Plateau, and I invite you to visit the Museum to experience two of our latest exhibitions.

Call of the Colorado Plateau summons us to slow down and engage all our senses through art, sound, and scent. The exhibit shares the stories of writers, artists, and explorers who have been shaped by this expansive, remarkable landscape and ultimately invites us back outdoors to see the land not as a backdrop, but as a living presence.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Reminder: February at the Museum

by Community Contributor • February 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

As we move into the new year, I’d like to share why becoming a member of the Museum of Northern Arizona means a deeper connection to the Colorado Plateau you love, as well as belonging to a community of people who share that interest.

Members enjoy all that MNA has to offer with free year-round general admission to the Museum, early access to exhibitions and events, invitations to member-only experiences, and discounts on select programs and in the Museum Gift Shop. Some membership levels also include reciprocal admission to cultural institutions across the U.S. and Canada through the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association—an especially valuable perk for frequent travelers and museum lovers.

February at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2026 • Comments Off

Help shape the future of the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2026 • Comments Off

At the Museum of Northern Arizona, we care deeply about creating a meaningful experience for you, our community, and our visitors.

But we need your help. We want to better understand our visitors’ needs and values so we can best serve you. Museums (like ours!) strive to encourage and expand learning while also addressing the challenges facing our society, and we need to hear your thoughts.

To do this, we are participating in a national survey of museum-goers sponsored by the American Alliance of Museums. This survey provides data from our visitors and visitors to museums nationwide, helping us be more effective in the coming months and in the communities we serve.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Valentine’s Day Jewelry Auction

by Community Contributor • January 27, 2026 • Comments Off

Our Valentine’s Day Jewelry auction will be closing soon! This auction will close on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 12:00 pm (MST) to allow us time to ship any items and ensure that they will arrive before February 14th.

If you have been looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, look no further than MNA’s virtual auction, featuring 20 stunning jewelry pieces! What’s more, all auction proceeds will benefit MNA’s educational mission, so you can give a lovely gift and support the museum at once.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Valentine’s Day Jewelry Auction

by Community Contributor • January 9, 2026 • Comments Off

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift? Look no further than MNA’s virtual auction, featuring 20 stunning jewelry pieces! What’s more, all auction proceeds will benefit MNA’s educational mission, so you can give a lovely gift and support the museum at once.

This auction is now open and will close on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 12:00 pm to allow us time to ship any items and ensure that they will arrive before February 14th.

January at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • January 6, 2026 • Comments Off

Happy New Year! We begin 2026 with two exhibitions designed to spark curiosity and engage the senses.

Starting January 10, we invite you to explore Katsintithu—Katsina Dolls. This newly expanded installation takes a deeper look at the tradition, meaning, and artistry of these uniquely Hopi dolls. The installation of dolls will rotate every six months, drawing from MNA’s extensive collection.

Later in the month, we hope you’ll return for Call of the Colorado Plateau, an immersive exhibition that explores the powerful relationship between nature and the human spirit. Featuring artists and adventurers inspired by the region’s dramatic landscapes, the exhibition goes beyond the visual with multisensory experiences that evoke the feeling of being in the wilds. We’re very proud to present this exhibition as the regional museum of the Colorado Plateau.

December at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • December 3, 2025 • Comments Off

During this season of togetherness and reflection, we are grateful for you—our friends, members, donors, and visitors who make the Museum of Northern Arizona such a special place. This year brought inspiring moments—from unveiling Collecting in a Changing World and exploring the stories behind Wagon Road to Mother Road, to welcoming curious hands at our Touch Tables and gathering for Twilight Thursdays and our Heritage programs. Your support helps us celebrate the stories, art, and cultures of the Colorado Plateau every day.

November at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

Museum of Northern Arizona

22nd annual Celebraciones de la Gente returns to the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

Tickets sold out for popular Celebraciones de la Gente Sugar Skull Decorating workshops Oct. 25, 26.

Also see:

Arizona Daily Sun — Flag’s Día de los Muertos celebrations invite the community to honor traditions

Arizona Daily Sun — Celebraciones de la Gente returning to Museum of Northern Arizona this month

FLAGSTAFF — Experience the vibrant traditions of Mexican heritage during the 22nd annual Celebraciones de la Gente (Celebrations of the People) at the Museum of Northern Arizona Oct. 25-26.

Held in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, Celebraciones honors the spirit of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) with heartfelt remembrances and joyful festivities.

Festival highlights include colorful ofrendas (altars) set in honor of departed family and friends, traditional dances, live music, and cultural presentations. Visitors can enjoy sugar skull decorating, face painting, Día de los Muertos crafts, calaveritas (short poetry), Mexican loteria (lottery) and authentic food from Arizona vendors. Mariachi Agave of Tucson and Ballet Folklórico de Colores of Flagstaff will fill the festival with vibrant sound and movement.

Reservation still available for popular Celebraciones de la Gente Sugar Skull Decorating workshops Oct. 25, 26

by Community Contributor • October 15, 2025 • Comments Off

Workshops fill quickly. Get your reservations in now!

FLAGSTAFF — Join us for Sugar Skull Decorating during Celebraciones de la Gente (Oct. 25-26) and take part in a cherished Día de los Muertos tradition. Sugar skulls (calaveras de azúcar) are colorful, whimsical confections that celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed. Made from sugar and decorated with bright designs, they symbolize the sweetness of life and are often placed on ofrendas (altars) or shared as gifts. Far from somber, these joyful creations bring warmth, memory, and celebration to the season.

Master decorators will be on hand to help you adorn your own sugar skull to take home. The Sugar Skull Decorating workshops are perfect for kids and adults. You must purchase a $10 ticket in advance for each participant.

Admission to Celebraciones de la Gente is an additional fee.

Museum of Northern Arizona — 2025 Virtual Auction

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2025 • Comments Off

Our 2025 Virtual Auction to benefit the Museum of Northern Arizona is now open! This year’s auction includes exclusive experiences with MNA experts and beautiful, authentic jewelry and accessories.

View the auction online here! All bidding for this auction will take place online. If you are in need help or have any questions, please contact us at development@musnaz.org or call 928-774-5211 x 285. This auction will be open until Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 12:00 pm.

September at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2025 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

As the Museum of Northern Arizona marks its 97th year this month, I’m thrilled to announce Twilight Thursdays, our latest initiative to enable more people to visit. The Museum will stay open late every Thursday until 7 p.m. Admission is pay-what-you-wish starting at 4 p.m. Guests are welcome to pay any amount—a few dollars, the regular admission price, or more if they’d like to support the Museum.

Whether you’re looking for an inspiring after-work outing, a family-friendly evening, or a peaceful way to wind down your day surrounded by art, culture, and science, Twilight Thursdays offer an exceptional opportunity for more people to enjoy the Museum galleries, exhibits, and Gift Shop.

August at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • August 6, 2025 • Comments Off

At the Museum of Northern Arizona, learning is at the heart of everything we do. As a new academic year begins, we’re excited to share opportunities designed to inspire curiosity and deepen connections to the Colorado Plateau.

First, we’re pleased to offer free admission to all Northern Arizona University and Coconino Community College students from August 15 through May 15. Simply present a valid student ID to explore exhibitions highlighting the science, art, and cultures of this remarkable region.

For younger learners, our elementary school tours offer hands-on experiences with real artifacts, interactive activities, and guidance from passionate educators and volunteers. Programs align with Arizona state standards, and grant funding is available to help with field trip costs.

To kick off the school year, we invite teachers and administrators to join us for Educators Night Out on August 20—a free evening to explore MNA, connect with peers, and discover how we can support your classroom goals.

For all lifelong learners, step out of the August heat and into the cool, welcoming environment of our exhibit galleries to explore the Museum’s latest offerings. Also, don’t miss a rare chance to go behind the scenes during our Easton Collection Center Open House on August 23.

Wishing you a month of discovery, inspiration, and meaningful learning!

Museum of Northern Arizona — You can help us reach our goal today!

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Thank you for your support of the Museum of Northern Arizona. This year, we are introducing many new hands-on activities at MNA – and we need your help!

From holding a fossilized dinosaur claw in your hands to making your own geology-inspired jewelry, hands-on activities provide a sense of connection that you just can’t get through a screen. That’s why we are asking you to help us reach our summer goal of raising $20,000 to support interactive elements at MNA!

July at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2025 • Comments Off

As July heats up, I invite you to visit our newest exhibition, Shifting Life Zones. This thought-provoking show explores how rising temperatures impact plant life across northern Arizona, the birthplace of the life zone concept. Through indoor and outdoor displays, an interactive map, and insights from MNA scientists, you’ll discover how climate change is reshaping landscapes.

Summer is such a busy and lively time at the Museum. There’s something for everyone with Thirsty Thursdays, garden tours, Easton Collection Center tours, and our 2025 exhibitions alongside our galleries of perennial visitor favorites. In addition, we are welcoming kids to Discovery Camps this month. These popular day camps bring energy, creativity, and learning to MNA’s campus.

Last but not least, a heartfelt thank you to the artists, performers, and guests who made our June Heritage Festival of Arts and Culture so special. This annual celebration of Indigenous cultures uplifts our community year after year.

Stay cool! I look forward to seeing you, your friends, and your family at the Museum.

Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra announces free community concert at Museum of Northern Arizona on June 14

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra invites you to our next Max Jerrell Community Concert. Elden Brass will perform tomorrow, June 14, under the outdoor tent at the Museum of Northern Arizona. The concert begins at 3:00 PM.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Requesting your help with a survey

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2025 • Comments Off

Every year we strive to gain a better understanding of our audience—who visits the Museum of Northern Arizona exhibitions, who attends our programs, and how similar or different they are from the larger community we serve.

Would you take a few minutes to complete a survey for the Museum?

June at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2025 • Comments Off

June marks the beginning of our busiest time of year with a multitude of events throughout the summer. Our beautiful location is special anytime of the year, but summer is especially wonderful here at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

This month sees the return of one of MNA’s most cherished traditions—the Heritage Festival of Arts and Culture, a celebration of living Indigenous culture and creative expression. We’re proud to welcome around 100 Native American artists from across the Colorado Plateau on June 28 and 29. I encourage you to come explore their exquisite works of jewelry, pottery, basketry, fine art, performances, and more. Our galleries provide an insight into the past and present of the Native communities on the Colorado Plateau, while the festival is a wonderful opportunity to talk with many artists from these communities and learn about their creative processes and influences.

Museum of Northern Arizona Virtual Auction open for bidding!

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2025 • Comments Off

We are just two weeks away from MNA’s biggest fundraising night of the year – the Party on the Plateau! If you didn’t snag tickets to this sold-out event, no worries – you can still bid in the silent auction, which is open for online bidding. You do not have to be attending the Party on the Plateau to participate!

May at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2025 • Comments Off

May is a month of growth and renewal—and we’re celebrating both here at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

International Museum Day is May 18 and we welcome everyone to the Museum with free admission all day. Enjoy hands-on activities featuring fossils, pottery, Indigenous games and arts. A heartfelt thank you to APS, our generous partner, for helping make MNA’s free admission days possible.

On May 24, come explore the beauty of the season at the annual Master Gardener Association Plant Sale and Garden Festival in the historic Colton Garden. Then, join us for the opening of our newest exhibit, Shifting Life Zones, which highlights the resilience and challenges of plant life in rapidly changing environments.

April at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2025 • Comments Off

With the arrival of spring, the Museum of Northern Arizona is filled with beauty and activity from our gardens to our galleries.

The MNA gardens are waking from their winter slumber, and we’re excited to see our native plants flourishing once again. At Colton Garden, we’re kicking off the growing season with a free Garden Starts Workshop this Saturday, April 5th.

As we embrace the season of renewal, we invite you to mark Slow Art Day with us. The April 5th global event encourages us to slow down, look deeply, and genuinely appreciate the beauty and complexity of art. In a world that often moves too fast, Slow Art Day reminds us to pause, reflect, and connect with creativity more meaningfully. We hope you’ll join us in taking a closer look at some of the remarkable works in our galleries.

At the end of April, we are thrilled to welcome six talented emerging artists to MNA for the Namingha Institute, an annual two-week residency program led by master artists Dan and Arlo Namingha.

We look forward to sharing this beautiful time of year with you. Thank you for being part of our MNA community.

Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Museum of Northern Arizona conducting annual survey of museum-goers

by Community Contributor • March 3, 2025 • Comments Off

We at the Museum of Northern Arizona care deeply about creating a meaningful experience for you, our community, and our visitors.

But we need your help. We want to better understand our visitors’ different needs and values so we can best serve you. Museums (like ours!) strive to encourage and expand learning while also addressing the challenges facing our society, and we need to hear your thoughts.

February at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • February 11, 2025 • Comments Off

As February unfolds, I invite you to experience two extraordinary exhibitions at the Museum of Northern Arizona that showcase the power of art to connect us to place, time, and identity.

Poetry Maps reveals how art and words intertwine to create new perspectives. This unique project began with paintings of the Colorado Plateau from our fine art collection. We then invited members of our community to respond with poetry, layering personal voices onto these visual journeys. Visit before February 28, when the exhibit goes dark for the installation of new gallery lighting. The exhibit will return on March 28.

January at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • January 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Welcome 2025! As MNA marks its 97th year celebrating the Colorado Plateau, I’m excited to share a bit about our upcoming exhibits—a mix of art, science, and cultural phenomena.

February: Life Extended: Biology as Metaphor features vivid new works by Flagstaff artist Debra Edgerton that explore the links between biological and human social structures.
March: Collecting in a Changing World showcases recent MNA acquisitions with insights into why the museum collects what it collects.
May: Shifting Life Zones looks at climate-driven ecological shifts in northern Arizona and MNA research that reveals how plants are adapting.
November: Wagon Road to Mother Road marks the Route 66 Centennial with a journey through the rich history of the iconic highway. The exhibit will debut captivating stories about the road’s wild side, unveiled by MNA archaeological research in Petrified Forest National Park.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Looking for a holiday gift?

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2024 • Comments Off

Give the gift of membership this holiday season!

Looking for a last-minute holiday gift? Consider giving the gift of membership to the Museum of Northern Arizona! By giving the gift of membership you are providing essential support for our exhibitions and educational programs. The recipient of your gift membership will become part of a community that is inspiring a sense of love and responsibility for the beauty, diversity, and cultural heritage of the Colorado Plateau. Click here to learn more about gift membership.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Make Your Year-End Gift to MNA Today!

by Community Contributor • December 11, 2024 • Comments Off

Why support MNA today?

Because in a world that’s increasingly filled with replicas, virtual experiences, and even artificially created images and videos, museums matter more than ever.

Because nothing can replicate the experience of this place. The bubbling fountain in the Golightly Courtyard surrounded by the life zones of the Colorado Plateau.
The anticipation of walking into a new exhibition, or the quiet communion of sitting with an artwork or object in one of MNA’s intimate galleries. The exhilaration of watching a traditional Indigenous dance performance – not on your phone, but live and in person.

December at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • December 4, 2024 • Comments Off

As the year winds down and the holiday season is in full swing, I invite you to find inspiration and calm at the Museum of Northern Arizona. A great place to start is in our new Poetry Maps exhibition, offering unique perspectives on the landscapes we hold dear.

This coming weekend, we’re hosting our annual Winter Market and Open House, a beloved tradition highlighting Indigenous artistry and craftsmanship. It’s a perfect opportunity to find thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting Indigenous talent. If you’re still searching for something truly unique, take advantage of our Museum Shop. It’s a delightful space where you’ll discover regional handcrafted treasures, surrounded by the quiet charm of the Museum.

Amid the holiday hustle, a visit to the Museum can bring moments of peace and reflection. Whether you’re exploring exhibits or just taking in the season’s beauty, we hope to see you here soon.

Warm wishes for a joyful December,
Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces says ‘Thank You’ to everyone who supported and attended the 21st Annual Anniversary of Celebraciones de la Gente on Oct. 26-27, 2024 at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • November 1, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces this week offered a big THANK YOU to everyone who supported and attended the 21th anniversary annual Celebraciones de la Gente — Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead festival at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 26 and 27.

Celebraciones cultural performances included Mariachi Rubor, a celebrated all-female ensemble, Ballet Folklorico de Colores of Flagstaff, local favorite Alena Chavez and NAU Banda Latino de Caribe. Children and families participated in hands-on activities such as decorating sugar skulls and face painting. Arts and crafts vendors featured art, handmade goods and cultural treasures.

November at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • November 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

As we enter November, I’m filled with gratitude for our community – MNA members, donors, partners, volunteers, board members, and staff whose dedication and passion fuel our mission. Together, we’re able to shine a light on the remarkable treasures of the Colorado Plateau, ensuring they remain accessible to all.

21st annual Celebraciones de la Gente honors vibrant tradition Oct. 26-27 at Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • October 24, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The 21st Annual Celebraciones de la Gente (Celebrations of the People) takes place Oct. 26 and 27 at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Held in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, the community event honors a vibrant tradition with a weekend of remembrances, joy and cultural immersion.

In the spirit of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Celebraciones invites people to experience the magic of colorful ofrendas (altars), unique tributes to loved ones passed, in the museum’s Jaime Major Golightly Courtyard. As the sun sets on Saturday, the courtyard transforms into a candlelit scene for Courtyard After Dark. Visitors can take in glowing ofrendas under the night sky while enjoying Mexican sweets and hot chocolate.

October at the Museum of Northern Arizona — Please join us for the 21st Annual Celebraciones de la Gente

by Community Contributor • October 4, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

As the vibrant colors of autumn arrive, we invite you to the Museum of Northern Arizona for a month of colorful events and cultural experiences.

Please join us for the 21st Annual Celebraciones de la Gente held with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces on October 26 and 27. The weekend festival honors the spirit of Día de los Muertos with remembrances, Latino art, mariachis, food, and a gathering of community. You’ll especially enjoy a meander through the Jaime Major Golightly Courtyard on Saturday evening to experience the traditional ofrendas (altars) glowing against the night sky.

September at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • September 5, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

As we welcome September at the Museum of Northern Arizona, we find ourselves in a season of celebration.

This month, we proudly mark the Museum’s 96th anniversary! Since opening its doors on September 6, 1928, in a modest two-room space at the Flagstaff Woman’s Club, MNA has blossomed into a leading educational and research institution. For nearly a century, we’ve been dedicated to highlighting the art, science, and culture of the Colorado Plateau, sharing life-enriching knowledge and experiences with visitors from around the world.

Deadline approaching (Sept. 16) for exhibitors to participate in our new Arts & Crafts Vendors Plaza at the 2024 Celebraciones de la Gente

by Community Contributor • August 30, 2024 • Comments Off

By Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces

The Museum of Northern Arizona and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces invite you to participate in the 21st annual Celebraciones de la Gente, a lively Day of the Dead Festival on Oct. 26, 27, 2024

Exhibitor booths will be open from 10am to 5pm on Saturday, Oct. 26 and Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024.

Please click here to download and fill out a vendor application before we are sold out. The deadline is Monday, Sept. 16, 2024. Send the completed application to ctaillac@musnaz.org or call (928) 440-6480

August at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • August 6, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

Welcome August! At the Museum this month, we’re warming up for some end-of-summer fun and an awe-inspiring open house. Please join us this week as we rock to the tunes of Black Lemon for our final Thirsty Thursday of the year. Then, take time for our free Easton Collection Center Open House on August 24. The center is an architectural marvel where the Museum cares for and preserves its vast collection of pottery, weavings, paintings, carvings, jewelry, photographs, and much more. Seeing the Journey murals by Hopi artists Michael Kabotie and Delbridge Honanie (detail shown above) is a delightful experience in itself. The annual open house is an opportunity for all to tour the center, engage with our collections staff and curators, and ask questions about the collections.

Whether a first-time visitor or a regular guest to the Museum of Northern Arizona, you’ll be amazed to see and learn something new about the Colorado Plateau. I hope to see you soon.
Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Museum of Northern Arizona — Your gift today opens minds!

by Community Contributor • August 6, 2024 • Comments Off

“This is the best field trip I’ve ever been on!” exclaimed a third grader who recently visited MNA as she admired the towering Therizinosaur in the museum’s lobby.

Did you know that in 2023, over 2,000 K-12 students visited MNA for free, thanks to generous philanthropic support like yours? A visit to the museum changes your perspective, regardless of your age. Recent visitor surveys tell us that 96% of visitors surveyed report gaining new insights and understandings from their MNA experience!

July at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • July 9, 2024 • Comments Off

As the warmth of summer settles in, there’s no better time to step into the cool and captivating spaces of the Museum of Northern Arizona. July brings a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in our latest exhibits. Explore the fascinating connection between Indigenous people and horses in Horse and Rider: A Southwest Story. And journey through the layers of the Grand Canyon’s alluring geology in the Grand Canyon Dragon Map exhibition. There’s so much to experience!

June at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • June 11, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

I am thrilled to invite you, your family, and friends to our highlight event of the year – the Heritage Festival of Arts and Culture – June 22 & 23 at the Museum. The festival promises an immersive experience, connecting you with the rich and diverse traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the Colorado Plateau. Dozens of Native American artists will showcase their work, interspersed with dancers, musicians, demonstrators, and cultural experts sharing their knowledge and insights. My favorite part of this MNA annual festival is the opportunity to talk with artists directly and purchase unique handmade pieces reflecting the beauty and spirit of the Plateau. The painting above by Venaya Yazzie (Diné) gives you an idea of the talented artists who will be on hand. There will be something for everyone to enjoy, including activities for children, energizing music from Tha ‘Yoties, and tasty regional foods like frybread from Sacred Hogan.

The anticipation for summer is building! I can’t wait to see you at the Museum.
Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Museum of Northern Arizona — Party on the Plateau Silent Auction closes soon!

by Community Contributor • June 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

The silent auction for this year’s Party on the Plateau will close tomorrow, June 8th at 7:00 pm! You do not have to be attending the Party on the Plateau to participate and bid on items in the silent auction. Bidding is heating up! With items ranging from artworks to experiences, there is something for everyone and all the proceeds benefit the museum.

You can bid online by clicking here. Note that if you view the auction on your desktop browser, keep your cursor in the middle of the screen as you scroll to ensure you see all auction items. Some of our great items are showcased below!

Museum of Northern Arizona — Party on the Plateau Silent Auction now live!

by Community Contributor • June 3, 2024 • Comments Off

In just one week, on Saturday, June 8th, MNA will host its largest fundraiser of the year, the Party on the Plateau. Part of the fundraising efforts at this event is a silent auction, which is now live and available for online bidding. You do not have to be attending the Party on the Plateau to participate and bid on items in the silent auction. With items ranging from artworks to experiences, there is something for everyone and all the proceeds benefit the museum. You can bid online by clicking here.

May at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Museum Friends,

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy a vibrant array of activities we have lined up over the coming weeks. I’ll share some highlights but be sure to scroll down to see all the happenings at MNA.

International Museum Day is May 18 and we’re offering free admission all day long. It’s an ideal chance to enjoy the Museum exhibits and some special events alongside your friends and family – absolutely free of charge.

Get ready for the unveiling of a captivating new exhibit, The Grand Canyon Dragon Map. I had the opportunity to see this extraordinary geology map during a rafting trip on the Colorado River in 2022. It immediately drew me in with its intricate details, colors, and design. This exhibit delves into the creation of the map in the 1970s, its applications today, and the stunning geology it depicts. Whether you’re a geology buff, an admirer of the Grand Canyon, or someone who appreciates exquisite maps, this exhibit promises to be an engaging experience.

April at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • April 4, 2024 • Comments Off

There is something very special about seeing a new exhibition come together in a gallery after months of planning. Our latest exhibition is no exception, and over the past few weeks, I have enjoyed seeing Horse and Rider: A Southwest Story transform from ideas on paper to a new exhibition in the gallery, drawn entirely from works in the MNA collection. The show delves deep into the timeless bond between Indigenous people and horses, weaving together artwork, cultural artifacts, and stories. What makes this exhibit even more remarkable is the invaluable contribution of wisdom shared by our Dine, Hopi, and Zuni consultants.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces / Museum of Northern Arizona among finalists named for 2024 Viola Awards by Creative Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • February 23, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raices & the Museum of Northern Arizona: 20th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente has been selected as a 2024 Viola Awards Finalists for the Excellence in Collaboration category by Creative Flagstaff.

The winners of the category will be announced on March 23, 2024 at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Flagstaff.

The 20th anniversary annual Celebraciones de la Gente — Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead festival was held Oct. 21, 22 at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

The event, a partnership between Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and the Museum of Northern Arizona, featured the return of the the ever-popular InTlanextli Tlacopan Aztec Fire Dancers, Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff, El Charro Bohemia, sugar skull and other workshops, and the display of nearly two dozen ofrendas/altars in the historic Jaime Golightly Courtyard.

February at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2024 • Comments Off

Message from Mary –

I often consider February a month of transition, when winter shows a mighty beauty, but we long to see what spring will bring. Now is an ideal time to enjoy the warmth of the museum and explore Selling the Southwest. MNA’s newest exhibit unveils idyllic portrayals of unspoiled landscapes – artworks commissioned to lure visitors to enchanting, unfamiliar lands. It tells a story of transition, one that would bolster early tourism, impact southwestern culture and art for generations, and influence the lives of Indigenous peoples. The exhibit showcases works by Thomas Moran, William Robinson Leigh, Louis Akin, Arthur W. Best, and Gunnar Widforss, as well as pottery, jewelry, and textiles by Native artisans from that period.

January 2024 at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • January 2, 2024 • Comments Off

Message from Mary –

As we all enter a new year and recover from the holidays, remember that a visit to the museum is a warm and welcome escape from winter. Come on a blustery day to enjoy the lush beauty of Tony Foster: Watercolour Diaries from the Green River. Visit alone when you need some calm and quiet or come with a friend for a social outing that prompts thoughtful discussion. No matter when you come or whom you visit with, museums are proven to be good for you, lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, and connecting you to the wonders of the world. A visit to MNA is a great way to start the new year!

Museum of Northern Arizona — Give the Gift of Learning & Discovery

by Community Contributor • November 27, 2023 • Comments Off

Your support is critical to growing and sustaining MNA’s work. In 2023, we:

Opened three new exhibitions;
Welcomed nearly 2,000 students on school visits;
Shared the MNA collections with hundreds of members of the public;
Provided over 200 researchers with in-depth access to collections;
Hosted numerous educational events that connect visitors with the art, science, and culture of the Colorado Plateau through authentic experiences;
And so much more!

November at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Message from Mary –

November is Native American Heritage Month, an opportunity to spread awareness of Indigenous history and contemporary Native issues. At the Museum of Northern Arizona we share and celebrate the Indigenous peoples of the Colorado Plateau year-round, both in our exhibitions and through special programs. This month we have a panel discussion about Indigenous foods with a Diné chef and a performance by a group of young Native dancers who have earned international recognition. Both programs are rooted in tradition while being contemporary and relevant – an appropriate reflection of Indigenous peoples and culture today.

A visit to the Museum is always a good way to learn about Native American Heritage, this month and year-round.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces says ‘Thank You’ to everyone who supported and attended the 20th Annual Anniversary of Celebraciones de la Gente on Oct. 21-22, 2023 at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by AmigosNAZ.com • October 27, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces this week offered a big THANK YOU to everyone who supported and attended the 20th anniversary annual Celebraciones de la Gente — Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead festival at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21 and 22.

This year’s event featured the return of the ever-popular InTlanextli Tlacopan Aztec Fire Dancers and Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff performing on both days of the festival in the Branigar/Chase Discovery Center, along with daily performances in the historic Jaime Golightly Courtyard by El Charro Bohemia.

The 2023 Celebraciones de la Gente was supported in part by the Arizona Commission on the Arts which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional Premier Sponsors include Coconino County District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and APS. Celebraciones presented in partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona.

The event celebrated the history and culture of Mexican, Mexican American and Latin@ communities in Northern Arizona at this annual fall event, which will include music, dance, food and heartfelt remembrances.

Community members learn about Dia de Los Muertos ofrendas, customs during ‘Ofrenda 101’ and ‘Halloween vs. Día de los Muertos’ presentations at the Flagstaff Public Library

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Library patrons had the opportunity to learn about Dia de Los Muertos ofrendas, the meaning behind items on a family altar and other cultural customs honoring the dearly departed during a session presented by Flagstaff Nuestras Raices at the Flagstaff Public Library on Oct. 5.

In preparation for its 20th annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Oct. 21-22, Flagstaff Nuestras Raices has been presenting a series of information lectures for Coconino County employees and patrons at the Camp Verde Public Library.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raices President Lydia Anaya and treasurer Becca DeLapp presented the “Ofrenda 101” session, creating a temporary ofrenda in the library’s Community Room.
They presented information about the meaning behind the use of colored candles, marigold flowers, water, salt, and your loved ones favorite foods.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces takes trip south to teach Ofrenda 101 lesson at Camp Verde Community Library — Presentation reported in the Camp Verde Journal. Click here to see the entire story

by Community Contributor • September 25, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — In preparation for upcoming Dia de Los Muertos celebrations in the region, members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces took a road trip south to teach an “Ofrenda 101” workshop at the Camp Verde Community Library on Sept. 15.

Community parents and children learned the basics of creating an ofrenda / altar, the placement of colored candles, family photos, favorite foods and other items on an ofrenda.

The library, which created its own ofrenda, is presenting a series of workshops and programs ahead of the annual Dia de Los Muertos Celebration from 1:30 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5 at the Phillip England Community Arts Center, 210 Camp Lincoln Road, Camp Verde

September at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • September 11, 2023 • Comments Off

Message from Mary –

The Museum of Northern Arizona turned 95 last week, but we’re not stopping to reminisce about the past. There is too much to look forward to this month, with a new exhibition opening, a harvest festival and market in the garden, the launching of a new series of talks on cultural appropriation, and a free day at the museum as part of the Festival of Science.

So many of the events this month reflect MNA’s many community collaborations. For the exhibition Seeing People Through Trees: A Human History of the Forest we worked with Coconino National Forest, NAU School of Forestry, Fort Valley Experimental Forest, and Riordan Mansion State Historic Park. For a third year, Flagstaff Foodlink organized the Harvest Festival and Indigenous Farmers Market at the Colton Garden. We’re partnering closely with the Sedona Arts Center to put together the series of panels on appropriation. And of course Flagstaff Festival of Science is a longstanding community event.

When MNA opened 95 years ago, many of those other organizations didn’t exist. It’s wonderful to be part of an institution that has been a foundation of the cultural life of Flagstaff for so long, and continues to be integral to the community.

Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

August at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • August 2, 2023 • Comments Off

This month you have the opportunity to gain unique insights into the museum Easton Collection Center, from a talk about living roof this weekend to an open house on August 26. During that open house, we’re rolling out the rug for you, quite literally – the Staples rug. This large, double-sided rug was last displayed in 2017. Because of its size and age (more than 130 years old) the rug is difficult to display, but also a remarkable example of Navajo weaving.

I hope you join us for this opportunity to see not only the Staples rug, but also our beautiful collections facility and some of the other spectacular objects we care for.

There’s so much more going on this month I can’t mention it all, but be sure to scroll through this entire email to see the upcoming talks, Ventures trips, art classes, and more.

June at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • June 8, 2023 • Comments Off

NOTE NEW DATES for 2023: We are counting down the days to one of the biggest events of the year – the Heritage Festival of Art and Culture. This year the festival will be on June 24 and 25. We moved the date in response to artists and attendees who overwhelmingly agreed that moving away from the busy 4th of July weekend would be better for everyone.

I am so excited that this festival brings together Indigenous artists from across the Colorado Plateau, the only such festival that I know of. These artists will all share and celebrate their cultures from under the shade of tents among the tall pines surrounding the museum. What a beautiful setting! In addition to over 100 artists from 10 different tribes, highlights include flute workshops with Aaron White, a presentation by fashion designer Patricia Michaels, as well as performances by the Zuni Water Striders, Dilzehe’e, Apache Singers, and Yoyhoyam Hopi Youth Dancers. I am looking forward to an exciting an inspiring weekend! I hope to see you at the Heritage Festival, and at the museum.

May at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2023 • Comments Off

This week Museum members came to see the new Designed to Move exhibition, and I had the joy of watching their delight. In stunning photographs by Taylor James, seeds are enlarged and lustrous. Poppy seeds resemble bumpy planets. The fluff on willow and clematis seeds glows. One young boy shook a seedpod and exclaimed “Dad, it’s nature’s music!”

Indeed, this exhibition reveals the music, art, and engineering within these essential but often overlooked parts of our world. It’s a revelation, and a reminder of how easy it is to take for granted things that enrich our lives.

Museum of Northern Arizona Virtual Auction Closes Today at 12 pm (MST)

by Community Contributor • April 19, 2023 • Comments Off

This morning is your last chance to bid on unique experiences through the MNA Virtual Auction. The auction closes today (Wednesday, 4/19) at 12 pm (MST).

We are grateful to the many individuals and businesses who have generously donated their time and services to benefit MNA, and we are grateful to you for your enthusiastic bidding!

The experiences below are just a few of the many items you can bid on before noon. Happy bidding!

April at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • April 6, 2023 • Comments Off

There needs to be a word to refer to the vibrant cultural community we are part of, in the same way we can refer to an ecosystem. Like organisms in an ecosystem, the many arts organizations in Flagstaff interact and create a stronger, more vibrant place for us all to thrive. That’s why this month’s Museum News includes upcoming events put on by the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestraand Theatrikos Theatre Company. We often work together with these and other arts organizations and decided to reach out to our mailing lists together. Strengthening existing partnerships and broadening our engagement with the community is all part of MNA’s Strategic Plan.

March at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2023 • Comments Off

March certainly arrived like a lion. Beautiful as all this snow is, I’m looking forward to some more lamb-like weather and eventually some spring flowers. While we may not see those flowers until April or May, we have lots to look forward to at the Museum this month, including fun activities for kids during spring break next week. It’s another example of our efforts to broaden our engagement with visitors and the community, as identified in our Strategic Plan.

This is also the final month for the exhibition Baje Whitethorne Sr: Náátsʼíilid/Rainbow Light, which has been nominated for a Viola Award in Visual Art. If you haven’t seen it yet, come in to enjoy a burst of vibrant color by one of Flagstaff’s preeminent artists. Then come back on March 25 for a closing event to celebrate Baje and this marvelous exhibition, which was curated by another Viola honoree – Alan Petersen.

Page 1 of 3

1 2 3 »