Digital Interactive Galleries (DIG)

In August 2007, the Henry began a two-year project partially funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services to allow online access to the Henry’s permanent collection. The Digital Interactive Galleries (DIG) project has allowed the Henry to implement new collection database software and to establish digital documentation of all works in the collection. As of April 2009, a searchable database with over 11,200 object records with images can be accessed through the Henry’s main website.

An important second component of the DIG project is the ongoing development of experimental, web-based introductions to specific mediums, subjects, and issues in art and design, all illustrated with images of objects in the Henry’s collection. These study guides are designed to introduce some key sub-collections and assist users in understanding, interpreting, and utilizing the Henry’s holdings.

Launched in August 2009, the first digital gallery, Costumes and Textiles, provides vocabulary and points of entry for understanding and exploring fashion, regional dress, and textiles from around the world. Two additional galleries, Photography and New Media and Northwest Artists, are scheduled to launch in fall 2009 and will include a timeline of technical and conceptual innovations. Northwest Artists will include video interviews and slide shows of contemporary regional artists represented in our collection.

Visitors are also encouraged to go to the Collection Search page to further explore the richness of the collection.