Museum of Anthropology at UBC
British Columbia
The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia (MOA) is a renowned cultural institution dedicated to world arts and cultures, particularly the works of the First Nations peoples of the Pacific Northwest. Established officially in 1947, MOA houses close to 50,000 ethnographic objects and over half a million archaeological artifacts. The museum's iconic building, designed by Canadian architect Arthur Erickson in 1976, reflects the post-and-beam architectural style of Northwest Coast First Nations and incorporates elements of the site's World War II gun emplacements. MOA serves not only as a major tourist destination but also as a research and teaching museum, supporting UBC courses in anthropology, archaeology, art, conservation, and museum studies. Its collections include significant donations such as the Koerner Collection of Northwest Coast First Nations art. The museum underwent a major renewal project completed in 2010, which added new galleries, research facilities, and a reflecting pool inspired by Erickson's original vision. After an 18-month seismic upgrade, MOA reopened in June 2024, ensuring the protection of its invaluable collections. Visitors can experience a blend of indigenous art, modern museum design, and educational programming in a stunning coastal setting.
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Tip: Plan your visit during weekdays or outside peak tourist seasons for a quieter experience. Advance ticket purchase is recommended, especially for special exhibitions. Check the museum's website for current exhibits and available discounts for students, seniors, and groups. The museum offers a year-round café and a museum shop for souvenirs. Accessibility features and guided tours are available to enhance your visit.
Interesting facts
- •The museum houses nearly 50,000 ethnographic and 535,000 archaeological objects, making it one of the largest collections of its kind in Canada.
- •The building's design is inspired by the post-and-beam architecture of Northwest Coast First Nations peoples.
- •A reflecting pool added in 2010 fulfilled Arthur Erickson and Cornelia Oberlander's original design vision from 1976.
- •The Bill Reid sculpture 'The Raven and the First Men' is prominently displayed on a repurposed World War II gun emplacement at the museum.
- •In 1999, Canada Post issued a stamp commemorating the museum featuring Bill Reid's sculpture.
History
The origins of MOA trace back to 1927 with UBC's acquisition of the Frank Burnett Collection and important Musqueam house posts donated by the graduating class.
Officially founded in 1947, the museum's first director was Harry Hawthorn.
In 1976, the current building designed by Arthur Erickson opened, funded partly by the Canadian government and UBC.
The Koerner donation in 1975 significantly enriched the collection.
The museum has undergone expansions and renovations, including a major renewal completed in 2010 and a seismic upgrade finished in 2024 to protect its collections.
Place Guide
Great Hall1976
The central space of the museum featuring towering totem poles and indigenous artworks, designed to evoke the spirit houses of the Northwest Coast First Nations.
Bill Reid Raven Sculpture1976
A prominent sculpture titled 'The Raven and the First Men' by renowned Haida artist Bill Reid, located on a repurposed World War II gun battery outside the museum.
Audain Gallery2010
A 5,800-square-foot exhibition hall added in 2010 dedicated to showcasing Northwest Coast First Nations art and other temporary exhibitions.
Reflecting Pool2010
An outdoor reflecting pool added in 2010, fulfilling the original architectural vision, enhancing the museum's entrance ambiance.
Contact
Phone: (604) 827-5932