Curious by Design: The Mindport Legacy
Opening May 10, 2025
Curious by Design: The Mindport Legacy, honoring the beloved community institution that sparked imagination and learning in Bellingham for nearly three decades, opens to the public on May 10, 2025.
This interactive exhibit celebrates the legacy of Mindport Exhibits, a one-of-a-kind space that blended art, science, and hands-on discovery for nearly 30 years. Curious by Design: The Mindport Legacy brings to life the spirit of Mindport through interactive installations, and retrospective stories from the minds and hearts behind the magic.
The exhibit will be on display for a limited time, offering longtime fans and new visitors a unique window into the creative spark that lit up Bellingham for almost 30 years.
Opening Details:
Member Preview Night:
Friday, May 9 | 6:00–8:00 PM
Exclusive after-hours access for SPARK Museum members – Invite Only
Public Opening:
Saturday, May 10 | During Regular Museum Hours
This is the inaugural exhibit in SPARK’s newest gallery that will be home to rotating exhibits. Keep reading to learn more about the transformation!
About the Gallery
The new gallery will be house in the previous KMRE Studios off the current “Discovery SPARK’s Invention” Gallery. When KMRE became independent in 2018, it was always our plan to utilize the space to highlight more of the collection.
We are excited to share this news and this opportunity with you and can’t wait to welcome you to see our first exhibit this spring!
See below to answers for some comments questions and reach out info@sparkmuseum.org for any others.
FAQ
Why is SPARK building a rotating gallery?
SPARK’s collection of historical artifacts and exhibits is expansive, but our space to share them is limited. Our Permanent galleries focus on telling a cohesive story about the history of electricity and invention, emphasizing major historical and technological milestones. However, many topics, historical moments and other developments fall outside this overarching narrative. A rotating gallery will highlight parts of the collection currently in storage and showcase new and engaging stories.
When will SPARK’s new rotating gallery open?
If all goes according to plan, the rotating gallery’s first exhibit will launch in late spring 2025. The gallery will feature works by local artist and tinkerer Kevin Jones and will honor the history of Mindport Exhibits, which closed Nov. 3, 2024, after 29 years in business.
How can I find out about upcoming exhibits and events?
Please subscribe to SPARK Museum’s monthly email newsletter to learn about upcoming exhibits, workshops, science and history programs and special events. Simply enter your name and email address here: https://www.sparkmuseum.org/subscribe/. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram (links on the top of the Subscribe page).
How often will exhibits be updated in the rotating gallery?
We anticipate exhibits in the rotating gallery will be updated every 18-24 months depending on topic, popularity, staff for planning and preparation, and other factors.
Where will the rotating gallery exhibits come from?
Primarily from our own collection! There’s a whole world to be discovered in the artifacts we currently have in storage, and we’re excited to share them with you through this new opportunity.
Can I visit the rotating gallery as part of my regular museum admission?
Yes! A visit to the rotating gallery is included in SPARK’s admission fee. Preview admission information and plan your trip at https://www.sparkmuseum.org/visit/.
Can I suggest topics or themes for future exhibits?
Sure! Ideas about exhibit themes or ways we can improve your experience here at SPARK are always welcome. Email our team at info@sparkmuseum.org.
Can I donate a historical artifact to SPARK Museum’s collection?
We rarely accept item donations, as our collection is largely complete. However, if you believe you have something of historical, technological or unique value, feel free to send photos and relevant details to our curatorial team at info@sparkmuseum.org.
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