Shoalwater Bay Carving Program work on display at state History Museum

Works produced in the Shoalwater Bay Carving Apprenticeship Program in Tokeland are featured in an exhibit that opened last Thursday, June 18, at the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma.

The opening included carving demonstrations by the artists, with artist Earl Davis, head of the apprenticeship program, also giving a gallery talk.

Called the ‘People of the Adze’ exhibit, the works will be on display at the museum through December 13.

Culture & heritage celebrated

The state History Museum announced the show online with the following information:

“With a deep connection to the shores of Shoalwater Bay, the Shoalwater Bay people resided along a vast network of waterways. The culture and heritage remain strong and traditional beliefs and practices are passed down to children in the community.

“To encourage this effort, the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe received a substantial grant from the Administration for Native Americans. Its focus is to restore the traditional carving methods and style of the lower Columbia River, Willapa Bay, and Grays Harbor by creating an apprenticeship program under the direction of the Education Department of the Shoalwater Bay Tribe. This exhibit features these highly decorated yet utilitarian carvings.”

Museum hours

The State History Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a later opening on Thursdays through the end of June until 8 p.m.

Getting there & parking

From I-5 in Tacoma, take the I-705/City Center exit. Once on I-705, take the 21st Street exit. Veer left at the top of the ramp, then turn right at the light onto Pacific Avenue. You’ll see the museum from the off-ramp. Look for the big brick arches.

Turn right immediately to park next to the building or follow the access road behind the Museum to the parking lot that extends behind Union Station. Parking rates start at $4 for up to two hours, increasing in $3 increments for each additional two hours.

If both lots are full, look for street parking on Pacific Avenue, or look for parking in the lots off of S. 21st Street between C Street and Jefferson Avenue.

Admission fees

State Historical Society members receive free admission. Adults pay $11, with Seniors and students ages 6-17 charged $8. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Active Duty service members and up to five members of their family receive free admission. Washington Quest EBT Card holders pay $1 per person or $2 per family if you show your card. AAA members get 15% off the admission price.