LOOKING FORWARD:

THE COAST SALISH MUSEUM OF FINE ART: TEMPORAL

Stories of Indigenous Present, Re-imagining Indigenous Futures

"Temporal" refers to the present time, of earthly matters rooted in the now. In many museums, galleries, and institutions Indigenous people are often portrayed as relics of the past—ephemeral and disconnected from present life. This disconnection from the now allows spaces to censor us or tell our stories for us without our consent or input. We are seen separately from our art, our stories, and all the experiences that shape who we are, and instead are seen as living artifacts confined to whatever walls others have built around us.

What does NOW and a FUTURE look like when only WE define us?

This show highlights real people and real stories of Indigenous presence in the now: who we are, the ones we love, the stories we tell, the homes we live in, and the marks we leave behind that shape the future. Our own voices, our own space. It envisions a future where we exist in the moment on our own terms. Taking up space, commanding the present.

CSMOFA is an indigenous takeover of a Museum in Thurston County. Curated and created by Indigenous artists who call the Pacific Northwest home. In partnership with Indigenous Creatives Collective, the artists in this exhibit represent many Tribal Nations and generations across the Northwest.

We are here, we have been here, and we will always be here.

Exhibition Dates: October through December 2026.

Opening Date October 2nd opening reception 6-9pm

October/November/December Open Hours:

Fridays 2pm to 6pm, open until 9pm each first Friday of the month

Saturdays 12pm to 4pm

Sundays 12pm to 4pm

Admission: always free admission