Local artist Frank Samuelson's play with form and color draws upon movement, adventure, romance, and the subtle portrayal of excitement for life itself. Visit this selection of Samuelson's paintings at the Jefferson Museum starting in August. Original artwork: Frank Samuelson, Wind in the Woods, 2022, acrylic on canvas, 24 x 36 in.
This educational poster exhibition exploring how movement has shaped the nation takes a broad look at American expansion and migration—from the earliest European settlers and Native American displacement to the effects of transportation advancements on modern mobility. Select items from JCHS's collection will appear alongside the posters organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service. Historic image from JCHS collection: PT Electric Railway Co. streetcar on Water and Adams Streets. Horace Tucker Building in background. (ID 2005.80.39)
Curated by Brian Perry, this exhibition features the work of four Indigenous artists. Using both traditional materials and mediums more recently associated with Indigenous art, these artists carry ancient culture, images, and stories into the present. Artists featured as part of We Are One: Brian Perry (Port Gamble S'Klallam): Carving and prints Dan Friday (Lummi): Glass sculpture Raya Friday (Lummi): Glass and cedar sculpture Kelly Sullivan (Port Gamble S'Klallam): Weaving Original artwork: Brian Perry, Heron Ritual, 2020, print, 22 x 22 in. Presented with major support from Tulalip Cares Charitable Contributions
Join us every first Saturday of the month at the Jefferson Museum for free admission all day starting at 11:00 AM, open hours extended to 7:00 PM, and Art Walk activities in downtown Port Townsend.
Saturday, December 9, 1:00 - 5:00 PM Free and all-ages! The JCHS) in partnership with KPTZ 91.9FM, is thrilled to announce the Holiday Extravaganza, a celebration of music and community spirit. This free, all-ages event promises a memorable afternoon filled with musical performances, engaging interviews with the artists, fun trivia, and abundant holiday cheer. This year’s lineup features an eclectic mix of local and regional talents, ensuring a vibrant tapestry of sounds and styles. Performances by: Roland and Bobbi Nikles (melodious blend of fiddle, guitar, and vocals); Jessica Logan & Ryan Hoffman (jazz with a Romani swing twist); Pamela Roberts (solo cello, spanning classical pieces through the ages); Jean Lenke & Steve Kirk (classic jazz vocals accompanied by guitar); and Les Couers Criminels (Cajun dance music). The Holiday Extravaganza is more than just a concert; it’s a gathering place for the community to come together and revel in the spirit of the season. Presented in partnership with KPTZ 91.9 FM This event is generously supported by the City of Port Townsend Arts Commission and Lodging Tax Fund.
Captivating Art Exhibition “Jeanne K Simmons: Photographs, Artifacts, and Intimate Works” Opening at JCHS Museum of Art + History We're excited to present a dynamic art exhibition, "Photographs, Artifacts, and Intimate Works," Showcasing globally acclaimed artist Jeanne K Simmons. This highly anticipated exhibition welcomes the public on Saturday, March 2, 2024, delivering a unique and thought-provoking experience that delves into the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. Within the immersive realm of Simmons' exhibition, visitors are invited to explore and contemplate the profound relationship shared between humans and nature. Jeanne K Simmons, renowned as both a land artist and environmental artist, masterfully weaves captivating narratives through her photographs, objects, and intimate works. Simmons' art echoes her deeply held belief that humans and the natural world are inseparable. Her creations often showcase women harmoniously integrated into natural settings, surrounded by meticulously organized foraged materials. These art pieces serve as an expression of her deep reverence for the environment and her concerns regarding the delicate bond between humans and nature. The exhibition offers a diverse range of works, each possessing its unique story and source of inspiration. Notably, Simmons’ artistic prowess extends beyond photography to include tangible objects and sculptures, […]
We're thrilled to announce the opening of the exhibition Tessa Hulls: Feeding Ghosts. This showcase will be on display from March 2 to July 7 in the downstairs gallery of the museum. Featuring excerpts from the newly released nonfiction graphic novel of the same name, written by Tessa Hulls, "Feeding Ghosts" delves into Hulls' profound quest to bring peace to her family's ghosts, as chronicled in her deeply moving memoir. To complement the exhibition, the museum is hosting a special event – the "Feeding Ghosts Book Talk" with Tessa Hulls, moderated in discussion by Lisbeth White. This event will take place on March 7 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Cotton Building in downtown Port Townsend. Admission is free, and signed books will be available for purchase during the event. Tessa Hulls: Feeding Ghosts is a graphic memoir that explores three generations of Chinese women, navigating themes of love, grief, exile, and identity. Hulls portrays the lives of her grandmother, mother, and herself, revealing the intergenerational impact of trauma and the enduring power of love. Tessa Hulls is an artist, writer, and adventurer known for illuminating the connections between the present and the past. With a rich background […]
Halloweekend @ JCHS Thursday, October 31 – Sunday, November 3 Celebrate Halloween Weekend at JCHS, where history meets mystery in the heart of Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport with a spirited past. From October 31st to November 2nd, join us for "Hall-O-Weekend" festivities that merge local lore with festive fun. Kicking off the events, the Museum of Art + History will be handing out treats at Main Street’s beloved downtown trick-or-treating and parade along Water Street. On Friday evening and Saturday morning, dive deeper into the shadows with our Legends + Lore: Halloween Edition tour. This exclusive, ticketed walking tour has been specially adapted for Halloween to explore eerie tales and unexplained mysteries that are woven into the fabric of Port Townsend’s history. On Saturday, November 1, Free First Saturday offers waived admission for all to explore the historic building and jail, while the "Hidden Haunts" scavenger hunt offers a gently spooky adventure for kids throughout the museum. Here’s a snapshot of the Hall-o-weekend Program Schedule: Trick-or-Treat on Water Street: Candy and handouts for kids along Water Street in front of the Museum on Thursday, October 31 from 3:45 – 5:45PM. Legends + Lore Walking Tour: Special Halloween-themed edition of […]
Holiday Extravaganza at the Museum of Art + History Presented in Partnership with KPTZ 91.9FM Get ready for an afternoon of holiday joy, music, and community! We're excited to welcome back our beloved Holiday Extravaganza on Saturday, December 14, from 12PM to 4PM at the Museum of Art + History. This year, we’re thrilled to partner once again with KPTZ 91.9FM, Port Townsend’s own community radio station, to bring festive cheer to all. This special event will feature a live broadcast from KPTZ, complete with musical performances, artist interviews, and holiday trivia to keep the spirit bright. Each performance brings a unique flavor of the season, offering a blend of styles for all to enjoy: Roger and Kristen Ferguson – Americana A River Story by Anna Linzer, read by Willow Baker and Bill Mawhinney Julian Catford – Solo guitar arrangements of seasonal melodies Hot Club of Port Townsend – Jazz Manouche quartet Paisani Norte – Music of Sicily From Americana to jazz and Sicilian tunes, our lineup ensures there’s something for everyone. This event is free and open to all—we invite you to bring family and friends to enjoy an afternoon filled with music, holiday spirit, and community connections. Event […]
