The Reach Gallery Museum Abbotsford

Abbotsford, British Columbia

Voices of the Valley, a permanent museum exhibition, was developed by The Reach in collaboration with the MSA Museum Society. The project’s aim is to inspire visitors of all ages to explore the rich collections of historical objects, photographs, and archival materials that tell the story of the Abbotsford community through the eyes of individuals who have shaped it.

The unique exhibition was designed using Historical Thinking Concepts; through a set of educational and interpretive programs, it encourages visitors to consider multiple perspectives and primary sources. It features on-site educational activities, interactive technologies, and school programs based in pro-active engagement such as the Tour & Try learning program, where students reflect on their museum visit by creating a keepsake in an artist-student experience.

In conjunction with the exhibition, The Reach Gallery Museum developed online Historical Resources Learning Packages and Education Outreach Kits to help teachers infuse museum-knowledge into their classrooms.