Please note our museum hours while we undergo renovations.
Museum HoursWed–Fri: 12:30pm–5pm | Sat: 10am–5pm

We live in a vibrant, colorful world! This First Friday, explore how artists capture the colors of nature through pigments, paints, and dyes.

Watch recreations of historical paint-making techniques, learn about the toxic beauty of poisonous pigments, examine the tools of the artist’s trade, and enjoy pop-up displays from our special collections. You’ll also learn about natural dyes like indigo and henna, and take home your very own henna design!

About First Fridays

Spark your curiosity while exploring the exhibits after hours! First Fridays bring together a myriad of activities covering everyday science, historical oddities, and everything in between. Grab your friends, and kick off an evening of discovery, surprise, and a little nerdy fun.

First Fridays at the Institute are always free and open to the public. Attendees will receive a 10% discount to National Mechanics restaurant.

More events

illustration of a 1950s kitchen
May 17, 2025
For Families

Stories of Science: Food Science

We’re sinking our teeth into the science of food at this special edition of Stories of Science!

cover of comic book
May 17, 2025
Drop-In Tours

School Lunch Tour

This interactive drop-in tour reveals how food scientists, the government, and the public have shaped in-school nutrition.

May 19, 2025
Classes & Workshops

Oral History Training Institute

This virtual training workshop introduces researchers to oral history and research interview methodologies.

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