Museum gallery with abstract paintings hanging on the wall and a pedestal with a black abstract sculpture

Learning to Look

December 17, 2022 - December 31, 2024

Old City Hall

Abstract image with red and green square and circle shapes and two white vase-like objects in the center

John Cole (1936–2007); Untitled Still Life in Red, c. 1974; Oil on canvas; Gift of Lucille Cole. Whatcom Museum Collection, 2019.10.17.

Art isn’t limited to paint on a canvas. We can see it in the natural world, historical objects, and the architecture around us. We all have the tools to appreciate and understand art. In our new permanent exhibition, Learning to Look, you’ll find that art is everywhere, and art is for everyone.

Comprising of artworks from the collection, Learning to Look, is arranged to break art into seven core elements: line, shape, form, texture, value, space, and color. Through question prompts and interactive activities, the exhibition introduces the world of art to visitors of all ages. By learning to look together, we create a richer understanding of art and its place in our world. Stop in the gallery to learn something new or apply your skills as you explore the diverse works of the collection.

The Museum is offering interactive school tours of this exhibition for K-12 students. Educators can reach out to our Education Department to book a tour.