Our Exhibits

AUDIENCE: General, School Groups, Family

RENTAL FEE: $3,500 + shipping for an 8-week booking

SIZE: 1,500-2,000 square feet

SECURITY: Moderate

INSTALLATION IMAGES: View online here

This compelling exhibition tells the story of one of California's most beloved and feared animals – the grizzly bear. The relationship that Californians have had with the grizzly bear over the centuries is one of dualities, expressed in fear and fascination. Now extinct in the state, the grizzly has been a central character in California's history.

The exhibit shows how the grizzly was:

• Seen as the embodiment of California's “untamed” wilderness
• Used as a symbol of freedom and power by the Bear Flag Rebellion and later the state itself (that's a grizzly on the state flag)
• Driven to extinction as California was settled
• Used in advertising and propaganda to sell products and ideas

The exhibition also presents scientifically accurate information about grizzly bear biology, dispelling some of the myths about this top predator. It includes special sections for children and interactive elements to engage visitors of all ages.

Bear in Mind is based on the Heyday Book publication Bear in Mind: The California Grizzly by Susan Snyder, and the Bancroft Library exhibition of the same name.

The exhibition includes:

• Over 30 text and image panels
• Panels designed for children
• Introductory film
• Hands-on interactives
• Engaging grizzly bear artifacts
• Exhibition press kit with digital images
• Interpretive materials: Gallery Guides, Docent Guide, Teacher Guide