At the heart of the African American experience in the Northwest is the story of our Journey to this region, the establishment of our vibrant community and the ways in which we have survived. To tell this ever-unfolding story, the Museum’s exhibits and programs will feature the visual arts, music, crafts, literature and history of African Americans in the Northwest. |
After Hours
The Legacy Gallery
April 17, 2010 – December 25, 2010
NAAM is excited to offer an exhibition documenting the exciting jazz scene that flourished in the Northwest between 1930 and 1960. Composed of contemporary portraits of jazz-era legends, vintage photographs and historic artifacts, After Hours captures the pulsating atmosphere and entertaining characters of the era. Focusing on the vibrant jazz scenes in three Northwest cities-Portland, Seattle & Spokane- the exhibition will look at the ways in which the clubs, performers, and music shaped the rhythms of each city.
East by Northwest
Ethiopian Journeys to the Northwest
November 14, 2009 – October 4, 2010
“Over the past several decades the Pacific Northwest has welcomed a growing community of immigrants from Africa’s eastern countries. These newcomers from Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, Sudan, Kenya and beyond bring the vitality and traditions of their diverse cultures to cities throughout Washington, Oregon and Idaho. This exhibition explores only one culture in this wonderful collection of new neighbors.”
- Seattle’s Ethiopian community
From restaurant owners to surgeons, teachers to corporate executives, Ethiopian immigrants are contributing their experience and talent to the myriad of professions, social organizations, community groups, political parties, and regional institutions that define American culture. Indelibly marking this region’s cultural landscape, the Ethiopian community has provided a much appreciated infusion of language, cuisine, history, dress, music, sports, art, laughter and life.
Presented by
Curated by Barbara Earl Thomas, Brian J. Carter and the Ethiopian Community Association. Special thanks to Shelley Young.
The Journey Gallery
 Photo by Jennifer RichardWhat does it mean to be African American in the Pacific Northwest? It is a beautiful range of colors and hues; a diversity of experiences and locations; a variety of countries of origin, both known and unknown; an assortment of religions; a staggering array of occupations; a multitude of co-workers, neighbors, friends and families; an ever -evolving community that continues to shape and reshape the human experience.
The Journey Gallery takes visitors on a fascinating journey through space and time, introducing the history, culture, and art of the region’s African American Community. Using a mix of photos, artifacts and compelling narratives, the Journey Gallery invites you to explore this continually changing story, for it is yours, it is mine, it is ours.
Curated by Barbara Earl Thomas, Deputy Director/Curator. Special thanks to Formations, Inc., Exhibit Design/Fabrication; Jackie Lawson, Black Heritage Society of Washington State, Inc.; Marsha Rooney, Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture; Pat Thomas, Black Historical Society of Kitsap County; Tim Detweiler, Executive Director of the James W. Washington, Jr. and Janie Rogella Washington Foundation.
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