Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) | Spokane

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) is the premier cultural institution in the Inland Northwest region, located in Spokane, Washington. Established in 1916, it stands as one of the largest museums in the Pacific Northwest and serves as a vital center for art, history, and culture. MAC is also one of the five Smithsonian Affiliates in Washington State, which speaks to its high standards in curation, research, and public engagement. It holds accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, ensuring excellence in museum practices and collections care.

Location and Setting

The museum is situated in Spokane’s historic Browne’s Addition neighborhood, a charming area known for its beautiful old homes and proximity to downtown Spokane. The building itself is architecturally notable, combining modern exhibition spaces with a design that complements the historic surroundings. Adjacent to the main museum is the Campbell House, an exquisite 1898 mansion designed by the prominent architect Kirtland Cutter. The Campbell House offers visitors a glimpse into Spokane’s early 20th-century lifestyle through its preserved interiors and period furnishings.

Collections and Exhibitions

MAC’s diverse collections span art, history, and culture with a strong regional focus on the Inland Northwest, Native American heritage, and contemporary art. The museum features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibitions that attract over 100,000 visitors annually.

Native American Art and Culture: A core strength of MAC is its extensive collection and exhibitions dedicated to the Indigenous peoples of the Northwest Plateau, including the Spokane Tribe and other regional tribes. The museum showcases traditional crafts, contemporary Indigenous art, historical artifacts, and educational programs that illuminate tribal histories, cultural resilience, and ongoing traditions.

Fine Art Collections: The museum holds a robust collection of paintings, sculptures, textiles, and multimedia art by regional, national, and international artists. It highlights both historical and contemporary works, offering a platform for emerging artists and established figures alike.

Historical Exhibitions: MAC explores the rich history of the Inland Northwest, including the region’s settlement, industrial development, and the Expo ’74 World’s Fair, which transformed Spokane with its environmental theme. Exhibitions often integrate photographs, documents, and artifacts to tell compelling stories of local communities.

Rotating Special Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on a wide range of topics. Recent and ongoing exhibitions have included explorations of Samurai culture, Japanese sword craftsmanship, and retrospectives of contemporary artists whose work reflects diverse cultural experiences.

Educational and Community Programs

MAC is deeply committed to education and outreach, offering a broad spectrum of programs for all ages. These include guided tours, artist talks, workshops, lectures, family-friendly activities, and school programs designed to engage and inspire. The museum actively collaborates with local Indigenous communities and artists to ensure authentic representation and to support cultural preservation.

Facilities and Visitor Experience

Visitors to MAC enjoy well-designed galleries that combine natural light and modern display techniques to enhance the viewing experience. The museum also features a museum store offering unique regional art and crafts, and a café serving light refreshments.

The nearby Campbell House adds historical context and richness to the visit. This Victorian-era mansion is furnished with original antiques and decorative arts, providing a vivid picture of Spokane’s past elite society and architectural heritage.

Accessibility and Practical Information

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture is open Tuesday through Sunday, generally from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours on the last Wednesday of each month. Admission fees are modest, with discounts available for seniors, students, and children, and free entry for members and young children under five.

Its location in a walkable neighborhood allows visitors to combine a museum visit with exploration of Spokane’s historic districts, parks, and downtown attractions.

In essence, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) offers a comprehensive cultural experience that blends art, history, and Indigenous heritage. Its dedication to regional storytelling, diverse exhibitions, and community engagement makes it a cornerstone institution for understanding the Inland Northwest’s rich and multifaceted identity.