Dinosaur skeletons, sparkling gemstones, preserved insects… These are all exhibits that most individuals have seen before in a museum. Most people have visited and explored a natural history museum at some point in their lives, but have many people seen an unnatural history museum? Although the majority of the public is unaware of it, an unnatural history museum- one of the few in the world- is located in Walla Walla, Washington. The Gerald Matthews Museum of Unnatural History is a rare and one-of-a-kind attraction that is filled with odd and quirky artifacts, creations, and ideas. Learn all about the museum’s founder, Gerry Matthews, and his beliefs and philosophies to get a taste of what to expect when you visit the Museum of Unnatural History in Walla Walla, WA.
What to Expect at the Unique Museum of Unnatural History
About Gerry Matthews
An actor and comedian, Gerry Matthews founded this museum with the mission of displaying humor and irony to the public through his unique exhibits and works of art. Matthews strives to aid the public in looking at world in a more provocative and insightful point of view, rather than focusing solely on facts. He accomplished this goal by creating his museum out of a small loft space in Walla Walla; his Museum of Unnatural History hours are every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
About Absurdism, Dadaism, and Surrealism
The three styles that can be seen throughout the Museum of Unnatural History is absurdism, dadaism, and surrealism. Absurdism is frequently explained as the contrast between a person trying to find meaning and his inability to do so. Dadaism can be defined as an irrational style in which the artist creates pieces that are either pointless or made of trashy materials to defy society’s idea of what beauty should look like. Surrealism refers to the cultural movement that contained unexpected and dreamlike pieces of artwork and writings.
What to See at the Museum of Unnatural History
The many exhibits of the Museum of Unnatural History are immensely difficult to describe! Matthews uses a broad spectrum of materials and colors to design images and pieces that symbolize a certain idea or concept. Some of his works can be construed as controversial or simply confusing, yet Matthews loves his audience’s questions and feedback. When you visit, expect to see numerous works presented that include the “Egg of the Giant Squawk”, “Doctor Mesmer’s Happy Wheel,” “Dancer Avoiding Cupid,” and so much more.
Come Stay with Us at Cameo Heights!
After exploring this bizarre yet entertaining attraction, complete your vacation to Walla Walla by staying in the best possible lodging! Cameo Heights Mansion provides the perfect environment for a relaxing getaway; we not only have luxurious rooms with unparalleled amenities, but our property contains many other amazing features as well, such as a pool, hot tub, game room, golf course, vineyard, theatre room, spa, and restaurant. Don’t miss out- check our availability today and start planning an unforgettable trip to Washington!
For more things to do in the Walla Walla area, download our free Vacation Guide!
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