Anchorage Museum, Anchorage Alaska

In 1968, it started as an Art and Ethnographical museum, and became accredited in 1973 (which I don't know what you have to do to get this, but apparently it helps). In 1992, the Smithsonian opened the Arctic Studies Center here which helped with recognition and money I am sure. It's quite an interesting museum now, holding all kinds of exhibits and collections far beyond its Art and Ethnography origins.

The Arrival

I drove around the museum a couple times, and finally found a spot on 6th avenue, where people were eyeing up my vehicle as I disembarked (break-ins are a problem there). Since it was a rental and I had full coverage, who cared I guess.

Tickets were timed, and I purchased in advance. It was not very busy.

Top floor

I went to the top floor first, so I could then just continue downward (I learned this at the Guggenheim and it works well for me). The top was mainly new art and interpretations of other mediums into new mediums, which isn't the type of art of I generally gravitate towards.

I'm going to be honest, I have a hard time conceptualizing these types of works and what they mean

2nd Level

This is when the museum really started to expand horizontally, with many more diverse items and the Smithsonian offices.

Native clothing and items used to survive and thrive in the environment that is Alaska

Waterproof, made from seals intestines. I cannot imagine the odors that must be prevalent over a long winter

I'm betting this insulates a little better than Canada Goose

It continues to the second floor which is larger than the top one, and houses the Alaska section (ok it's all Alaska but this is more focused on the history of it).

The long hall simulating a journey through the history

Many original implements to get around the untamed lands

Modern Anchorage and the draw of the night (which can last for months here)

Yes, yes, it is cold. Minnesota prepares you for Alaska though

I think this is a cultural and political piece to show you what's actually behind or the basis of Alaska

And then more traditional artistry, with many amazing landscapes showcasing the raw beauty Alaska has so much of.

A landscape by Sydney Laurence of Mt. McKinley. It seems like it was very difficult to get there back then to model this, but it is stunning

Political piece on the commercialization of Alaskan fish

Big, open, and comfortable viewing of many nature items

Another astounding mountain-inspired painting. The sense of being alone but being part of something special, comes forth to me strongly

I'm not sure I understand the feathered bears at all

Main level

This floor has a lot of science and interactive displays. A children's area, and most sections designed to stimulate your mind to think.

Kiddies delight, go explore and see how things work through playing with them

As part of the ring of fire, several active volcanoes are in Alaska

Alive and seemingly interested me, let's hope not cooked in butter though

Do not underestimate the Kaladi Brothers coffee, it is astounding

Summary

A museum that is trying to do all things for all people, and I think it's actually hitting the mark pretty well. Enough of a representation in each section to make it worthwhile.

And of course... a shop! This one has a lot of native and local artistic items in it so if you are into those things, they have you covered.

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