To the average non-Native, “kachina dolls” are a beautiful representation of Southwest Native American culture. To Hopi and Zuni people, however, Katsina carries deep meaning. The symbolism inherent in these objects, which are commonly sold as souvenirs, is complex and dates as early as the mid-18th century.

A treasure trove of photographs from across the region documented by rock inscription experts and backcountry adventurers James Knipmeyer and Mike Ford. This exhibit weaves together the records left behind by trappers, traders, missionaries, government expeditions, cowboys, outlaws, homesteaders, explorers, and others.

As the coronavirus pandemic brought the world to a halt in the early months of 2020, Moab resident Mónica Piñera sought to capture the stories arising around her both here in Utah and in her native Mexico.

Oral histories paint a vivid picture of days gone by - adding detail and depth to our understanding of the past. How can we preserve community stories moving forward? Learn more about the Museum’s efforts to preserve, diversify, and increase access to the range of oral histories in our Collection and add your family history by visiting the exhibit. "A Grand Heritage" will be on display through the end of April.

The Moab Museum is honored to present The People's Tapestry: Weaving Tradition in Navajo Culture, a celebration of the magnificent weavings created by the Diné (which means "the people" in Navajo). Diné textiles reflect the concept of hózhóó, or balance and harmony, which is reflected in the primarily symmetrical designs. Balance and harmony bring beauty and a sense of well-being. The People's Tapestry provides a space for storytelling by The People through weaving demonstrations and approximately 100 textiles displayed in the spirit of historic trading posts across the four corners region. Historic photographs highlight weaving scenes from centuries ago, while contemporary images of heritage sheep shearing remind guests of a deeply rooted tradition that thrives still, today. Interpretive text introduces historical events that influenced weaving styles, and the symbolism inherent in their designs. The significance of Diné textiles transcends artistic expression; weavers beautify their world through the spiritual act of weaving and integrate their art into the web of everyday life. The Navajo weaver's song declares, "With beauty, it is woven." We hope that the spirit and aesthetic of these powerful pieces will inspire you to experience the land and the tradition of the Diné beyond the walls of the Moab Museum.

William Grandstaff was an early settler of the Moab region- a Black cowboy and frontiersman who once ran cattle in the canyon we today call Grandstaff Canyon. His story has long captivated imaginations and elicited speculation: what would his life have been like? Where did he come from before Moab, and what was his life like after? How would his racial identity have impacted his life experiences as a frontiersman?

Block Prints by Everett Ruess is a Utah Department of Arts & Museums’ traveling exhibition which includes a selection of block prints created by artist and writer, Everett Ruess, depicting his travels throughout the western United States in the early 20th century. Running from November 11th through February at the Moab Museum, the prints included in the exhibition are among those he created during the five years period prior to his disappearance in the Escalante canyons in 1934, including travels between the Californian coast, the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the canyonlands of Utah and Arizona.

This year’s quilt challenge is entitled ‘Flower Power’ and features floral fabrics and other blooming design elements – as well as a few historic quilts from the Moab Museum’s Collection, which feature flowers as well. During the exhibition opening, which was open to the general public, visitors had the opportunity to enjoy light refreshments with the quilters themselves, throughout the evening. For the duration of the exhibit, visitors may vote on their favorite designs, and the Quilters Guild will provide an award to the winner. The temporary exhibition will be on display mid May through mid June, 2023.