“Maybe they will understand that there is a place for them in Spokane.”
In this story, we highlight the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC), a local arts organization that provides youth activities through our program, EngageIRL.
The MAC lives in a large building, graced with floor-to-ceiling windows that face the roaring Spokane River, inviting inspiration and contemplation. Nestled in the northwestern edge of Browne’s Addition, the MAC connects Spokane youth with local history in dynamic ways. Through various programs and exhibitions, the MAC reinforces their mission to support aspiring artists.
Storytelling in various formats demonstrates how art engages with real life. For example, a piece constructed of recycled materials may make a student reflect on how that which we discard can be given new life and significance.
“Every kid is different, and every kid has their own passion. We honestly may not be for every kid,” says Rob Worstell, MAC Director of Education. “But we will be for those kids who love art and who are looking for a way to connect with art… If we can be here for them, maybe they will understand that there is a place for them in Spokane.”
At the MAC, students can discover absolute self-expression in multiple artistic realms, such as performance, design, and craft arts. By experiencing history and identity in ways they may not have seen before, the MAC broadens a student’s perspective on what art can be.
But it’s not just for students. Parents are encouraged to engage with their children in hands-on programs that navigate identity and place, such as panels, free lectures, and even basket-making. The MAC designs age-appropriate activities for kids and their parents to investigate community histories and how these resonate through art. Alongside this, MAC’s Create Space is an open craft area for students to exercise uninstructed and unprohibited creativity.
Self-identity often drives art. By connecting with artists of similar backgrounds, students will consider their own identity, the arts, and further extracurricular opportunities.
This is doubly important with the MAC’s responsibility for representing a full and accurate local history. Stepping into that history without the echoes of voices like one’s own can feel discouraging. It’s also well worth exploring identities other than your own to truly understand your community.
“When we can relate to something in someone else’s heritage, we then understand that we are all connected and that we’re more alike than we are different,” explains Marit Fischer, Chief Marketing Officer at the MAC.
“I think that’s really important for kids to see themselves in the artists… You can come here and see the art and feel the energy in that room, and see yourself, [too].”
Executive Director Wesley P. Jessup agrees. “People form relationships with heritage when they find meaning in it.”
Here at LaunchNW, creating belonging in our youth is a crucial part of our mission. The MAC’s dedication towards facilitating students’ self-discovery and showcasing local artists grows this sense of belonging in our students. We are grateful for the MAC’s involvement with EngageIRL and look forward to seeing their continued impact on Spokane youth.
Quinn Teubert is a Gonzaga University student and writes for LaunchNW through Gonzaga’s ‘Writing In/With Community’ course.