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Prized Northwest Native Arts Show Returns to Washington State History Museum Opening June 8, the annual In the Spirit exhibit displays a rich blend of cultural tradition and contemporary expression TACOMA - May 15, 2013 - On Saturday, June 8, the Washington State History Museum unveils the eighth annual In the Spirit: Contemporary Northwest Native Arts exhibit, in partnership with The Evergreen State College Longhouse Education & Cultural Center. The exhibit, which is on display through August 18, 2013, showcases work from more than 20 Northwest Native artisans and focuses on the distinctive cultures and stories of the region's tribal groups. The two-month exhibit will culminate with the In the Spirit: Northwest Native Arts Market & Festival on Saturday, August 17, 2013. "Through these incredible artists, we are able celebrate and teach about the diversity Washington state heritage," said Jennifer Kilmer, Director of the Washington State Historical Society. "The sheer variety of mediums on display is a testament to the unique heritage of Northwest Native art and the beautiful contrast between traditional and modern cultures." There will be nearly 30 pieces in this year's exhibit, including paintings, prints, basketry, sculpture, woven clothing, beadwork, cast glass, and mixed media pieces. This year welcomes an impressive eight past In the Spirit award winners and six first-time exhibitors. Each artist, representing 20 tribal groups, presents a different perspective and aesthetic. During the opening night reception on June 8, museum members are invited to view the full exhibit and discuss the works with the artists and curators. The three-person judging panel, comprised of Native American art experts and artists, will present this year's winners in four categories at the opening reception: "Best of Show," "Celebrating the Northwest," "Celebrating Tradition" and "Celebrating Innovation." A "People's Choice" award is voted on by visitors throughout the exhibit and awarded during the August festival. "The interest and enthusiasm for this exhibit continues to grow year after year, and it shows how important these artists and cultures are to Washington history," said Tina Kuckkahn-Miller, Director, Longhouse Education and Cultural Center at The Evergreen State College. "Each piece this year is rich with stories that tell of the various challenges, values and triumphs of Northwest Native communities." Exhibit hours are Tuesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., with extended hours and free admission every third Thursday, 2 - 8 p.m. General admission is $9.50 for adults; $7 for seniors and students; free for children, age 5 and below, and members are always free. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, active duty military with valid ID can receive free admission along with up to five of their family members. The In the Spirit exhibit and festival are organized by the Washington State Historical Society and The Evergreen State College; made possible in part by the Tacoma Arts Commission, Tulalip Tribe and Nisqually Tribe, and media sponsor KUOW 94.9. About the Washington State History Museum The Washington State History Museum, flagship of the Washington State Historical Society, is located at 1911 Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma, just off 1-5. The Washington State History Museum presents exhibits, programs, and events that bring to life the stories of Washington's history. The Washington State Historical Society has been dedicated to collecting, preserving, and vividly presenting Washington's rich and varied history since 1891. For more information, please call 1-888-BE-THERE or visit our Web site, www.WashingtonHistory.org<http://www.washingtonhistory.org/> About The Evergreen State College Longhouse Education & Cultural Center The "House of Welcome" Longhouse Education and Cultural Center is a public service center at The Evergreen State College that provides a full Native curriculum and artist grant programs. Built in collaboration with Northwest tribes, it is the first building of its kind on a public campus in the United States. The Longhouse is a multi-purpose facility with the mission to promote indigenous arts and cultures through education, cultural preservation, creative expression and economic development. For more information visit www.evergreen.edu/longhouse<http://www.evergreen.edu/longhouse> # # #