Explore the Enigmatic World of the “Unicorn of the Sea” at Minnetrista’s Newest Exhibition, Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend
July 11, 2025
Media Contact: Brea Cunningham, Director of Marketing & Communications
E-mail: bcunningham@minnetrista.net
Tel: 765.287.3525
Muncie, IN—Dive into the icy depths of the Arctic this summer at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens with Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend, a captivating traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Opening July 12 in Gallery 3 of the Center Building, the exhibition runs through September 28, 2025.
With its iconic spiral tusk, the narwhal has captured imaginations for centuries—often called the “unicorn of the sea.” Now, visitors can explore the narwhal’s world like never before through immersive displays, hands-on interactives, and stunning visuals that reveal the narwhal’s crucial role in both Arctic ecosystems and Indigenous cultures.
“The oceans are full of mysterious and unique creatures that boggle the imagination,” said Sebastián Encina, Associate Director of Exhibition & Curation at Minnetrista. “The narwhal is so unlike many of the animals we are familiar with. Learning about their role in the environment and their place in the culture of the Inuit is important to our understanding of the relationship between humans and animals, and how we can be good stewards of our shared environments.”
At the heart of the exhibition, visitors will find a life-sized, 16-foot fiberglass model of an adult male narwhal suspended from the ceiling. Touchable interactives, audiovisual experiences, and first-hand accounts from both Arctic researchers and Inuit community members offer a deeper understanding of how traditional knowledge and scientific research together illuminate the narwhal’s mysterious life—and what it can teach us about our planet’s shifting climate.
Whether you're a marine biology enthusiast or simply curious about life in Earth’s polar regions, Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend offers an unforgettable journey through one of the planet’s most extreme and rapidly changing environments.
Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend is organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, and in partnership with eKeeper Systems.
For more information about Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend, visit minnetrista.net. Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the most up-to-date information on our exhibitions and events.
Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is your year-round gathering place! Born out of the Ball family legacy, Minnetrista connects people, encourages engagement, and improves our community. There is always something new to discover at Minnetrista—from beautiful gardens and unique events to interactive exhibitions and engaging workshops. Whether you’re exploring local history, enjoying hands-on activities, or discovering new art, every adventure is fun, educational, and inspiring. Minnetrista is a place where learning and creativity come together, offering something for everyone to enjoy. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.
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