Museum of Anthropology at UBC

The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver is an architectural masterpiece designed by Arthur Erickson. This impressive museum is dedicated to showcasing cultural artifacts from around the world and is particularly renowned for its extensive collection of First Nations objects. The address is 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada.

History and Significance

The MOA was opened in 1976 and provides visitors with a deep insight into the cultures that have shaped the American continent. With a philosophy focused on respecting and understanding indigenous heritage, the museum aims to foster dialogue between cultures. It plays a crucial role in training and education and is actively collaborating with indigenous communities.

Collections and Exhibitions

The museum houses nearly 50,000 objects from various parts of the world, including extensive collections from the Pacific Northwest, Africa, Asia, and Europe. Notably, the intricately carved totem poles and short documentaries depicting the lives of the First Nations are worth highlighting. The permanent exhibitions are designed to cover both historical and modern aspects of art, making the visit a profound experience.

Currently, some significant exhibitions are on display, such as “In Pursuit of Venus [infected]”, which runs until January 5, 2025, and the exhibition “To Be Seen, To Be Heard”, which addresses the First Nations in public spaces from 1900 to 1965. These exhibitions are aimed at enhancing knowledge transfer and opening new perspectives on cultural heritage.

Practical Information

The MOA is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with special extensions on Thursdays until 9:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays (from October to May). The entrance fee for adults is $25, while students and seniors pay $22. Children under 5 years old have free access.

Visitors can recharge at the simple yet cozy Cedar Café, which offers a selection of snacks and drinks. There is also a gift shop featuring crafts and books on culture and anthropology.

Getting There and Location

Accessing the MOA is straightforward. Visitors can take various bus lines from downtown Vancouver to the UBC campus. Alternatively, the museum is also accessible by car, with paid parking available nearby. For cyclists, there are secure bike racks. The beautiful location on NW Marine Drive also offers a great view of the surrounding nature.

Visitor Feedback

Reviews

Feedback from visitors is overwhelmingly positive. Many highlight the impressive collection of First Nations artifacts and appreciate the easy navigation through the museum. Visitors recommend planning at least 2 to 2.5 hours for a tour to fully enjoy the exhibition experience. Some note that parts of the museum may be a bit dull for non-anthropologists; however, this is more than compensated for by the fascinating exhibitions and the quality of the presentation. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the opportunity to reflect between the exhibitions is also appreciated.

Overall, the Museum of Anthropology offers a wonderful opportunity to delve into the history and culture of Canada’s indigenous peoples and those of other countries. Whether you are interested in indigenous heritage or simply wish to learn more about various cultures, the MOA is an essential destination in Vancouver.