Three artists explore the cyclical nature of life, nature, and energy and how each of these forces contributes to personal healing. Through their work, these artists delve into the subtleties of natural phenomena, reflecting on the constantly changing landscapes of both the external world and inner self.

As demonstrated in Encounters: Photography of r.r. jones, the well-traveled fine arts photographer captures images that reveal the dynamic and lively curiosity that has sustained his creativity and informed his generous worldview. Featured in his exhibition are portraits from spiritual journeys to Bali, Southeast Asia, and Mexico, where he encountered and connected with spiritual leaders and everyday people in memorable and soulful ways. These photographs reveal the emotional depth, observant eye, and skilled technical skills of r.r. jones.

Stitches & Wiggles: Unraveled and Reimagined Mixed Media Art by Jody Alexander and Thomas Campbell invites us to participate in an object-based dialogue that speaks to the similarities of vision, intention, and ways of creating.  Alexander and Campbell gather materials to reuse, repurpose, repair, mend, patch, or stitch together to make compelling artworks that use the language of our time.

The Los Gatos History Project is NUMU’s unprecedented effort to catalog and dive deeper into its permanent collection. This exhibition, the first to come out of the project, presents a selection of objects that have given the museum more questions than answers. By taking a critical look at these objects and the stories they tell, the exhibition will prompt visitors to ask: Who made these objects? Why did the museum collect them? What can we learn from them? And whose stories are missing? Through this exhibition, visitors will gain a greater understanding of museum collecting practices, and a greater appreciation for the hidden complexities of Los Gatos history.

Opened in September 2023, this demonstration and prep lab serves as a dedicated space to display artifacts, conduct conservation efforts, and present public educational programs. In this space, NUMU demonstrates that history is anything but static! The Collections Lab is open Friday-Sunday during museum hours.