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The arctic fox has the warmest pelt of any Arctic animal. The arctic bumblebee hibernates more than nine months of the year. The ice of the Arctic is the source of 10 percent of the world's fresh water. From voles to polar bears, the Arctic is a place full of contrasts. The region known as the Arctic is the northernmost part of the Earth and home to 4 million people and many species of wildlife. “Near the Bear,” an all-ages exhibition opening March 4 at the Anchorage Museum, examines the enormous range and scale of life in the Arctic – primarily through an exploration of Arctic animals.
The word Arctic comes from the Greek word for bear, Arktos. It is believed the name refers to two constellations that can be seen in the northern sky – Ursa Minor (Little Bear) and Ursa Major (Great Bear). In “Near the Bear,” Arctic animals, people, food, culture, language and transportation are considered through the lenses of art, natural history and science. Hands-on art activities and experiences, artwork from the museum's collection, a reading area and drawing table, and films offer additional ways to investigate. Visitors can also “drive” a four-wheeler and snowmachine (without motors).
The Anchorage Museum offers a variety of family friendly programs and spaces, including Art Lab, an art studio for all ages from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturdays, March 5 through April 30. Visitors are welcome to explore new materials and make their own creation in this open-ended art studio. An animal illustration class held in conjunction with “Near the Bear” will be April 20 to 21.
“Near the Bear” is presented with support from Eyak Corporation, Repsol and the Atwood Foundation.