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Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture public art

The official state museum of Washington, located on the University of Washington campus, featuring massive art installations and over 16 million artifacts.

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Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture public art
Richard N Horne, CC BY-SA 4.0

What is the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture known for?

It is the official state museum of Washington and the natural history museum of the University of Washington. It houses over 16 million artifacts, including the world's largest collection of spread bird wings.

What public art can I see at the museum?

The museum features a 60-foot-tall mural titled “Synecdoche” by artist RYAN! Feddersen, which represents intersections between history, culture, and contemporary pop culture in the Pacific. Additionally, the exhibits include Native art pieces such as totem poles, a welcome figure, and a 35-foot canoe.

Where is the museum located?

The Burke Museum is located at 4303 Memorial Way NE on the University of Washington campus in Seattle.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Yes, the museum encourages booking tickets in advance to visit at your ideal time and skip the line.

What is unique about the museum's design?

The museum features immersive galleries and visible working labs that allow visitors to see into the labs and access collections that are usually hidden.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture is the official state museum of Washington, situated on the University of Washington campus in Seattle. Established in 1899 as the Washington State Museum, the institution has evolved into a modern hub for learning and healing. The museum opened a redesigned new space in 2019, which was specifically designed to give visitors access to collections that are usually hidden from the public view. Visitors can explore permanent galleries and rotating special exhibitions. A standout feature of the museum's public art is the 60-foot-tall mural titled Synecdoche by artist RYAN! Feddersen, which represents the intersections between history, culture, and contemporary pop culture in the Pacific. This massive installation serves as a visual anchor for the museum's immersive galleries. Beyond the murals, the museum showcases a diverse array of Native art pieces, including a 35-foot canoe, totem poles, and a welcome figure. These works are displayed alongside a vast collection of more than 16 million artifacts, including the world's largest collection of spread bird wings. The visitor experience is further enhanced by visible working labs, allowing guests to see the science and preservation work happening in real-time. Located at 4303 Memorial Way NE, the Burke Museum emphasizes a mission of caring for and sharing natural and cultural collections to support knowledge, joy, and inspiration. It serves as a critical intersection of academic research and public engagement on the University of Washington campus.

Visitor tips

  • Book your tickets in advance to secure your ideal visit time and skip the line.
  • Allow at least two hours to explore the permanent galleries and the working labs.
  • Check the museum's homepage for specific parking directions and information before your arrival.

Nearby context

The museum is located on the University of Washington campus, providing a walkable connection to the University's academic buildings and Memorial Way NE.

Sources

Evidence and links