No ideas but in things wrote the poet William Carlos Williams in 1927, the year before the Museum opened. The thousands of “things” in the MNA collection provide an endless trove of ideas that we explore through exhibitions. Each of the planned exhibitions tells a unique story of the region through art and objects from our collection. Frequently these exhibitions blend science and art.
Upcoming Exhibitions
Life Extended: Biology as Metaphor
Life Extended: Biology as Metaphor explores the paintings of Debra Edgerton, a Flagstaff artist and research associate at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Utilizing the imagery of local algae, the artist creates ethereal watercolors that serve as a metaphorical lens to explore social structures and the African American experience. Through her art, Edgerton examines themes of race, identity, and hierarchical relationships.
Opens in February 2025
Collecting in a Changing World
Our Collecting in a Changing World exhibition will highlight a selection of additions to the Museum of Northern Arizona collections acquired over the past few years. While some pieces are lovely and have clear potential to be used in exhibitions, other objects are valued because of their use by researchers. The exhibition will illuminate the reasons why MNA accepts objects and how those collections are used.
Opens in March 2025
Shifting Life Zones
Northern Arizona, where the concept of life zones originated, serves as a prime example of how these zones are shifting due to climate change. Ongoing research by the Museum of Northern Arizona provides valuable insights into how plants adapt. This exhibition will illustrate and examine changes that are occurring on the Museum’s campus and in the broader region.
Opens in May 2025