Mandela: The Official Exhibition to Open at Seattle’s MOHAI in May 2025
Seattle’s Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) is set to host a powerful and moving exhibition, "Mandela: The Official Exhibition," opening on Saturday, May 24, 2025. This immersive experience will explore the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, the global icon of justice, resilience, and reconciliation.
The exhibition, produced by Round Room Live in partnership with The Royal House of Mandela (RHoM) and RHoM Investments, offers a unique and intimate look at Mandela’s journey. Visitors will have the opportunity to see previously unseen film, photos, and more than 150 historical artifacts and personal effects on loan from the Mandela family, museums, and archives worldwide. These items, combined with multimedia presentations and recreated environments, provide a deeper, more personal connection to key moments in Mandela's life.
"Mandela: The Official Exhibition" traces Mandela’s path from his early life and work as a lawyer to his growing role in the African National Congress. It highlights his fight against apartheid, his long imprisonment, and his eventual release, leading to his historic election as South Africa’s first Black president. The exhibition concludes with a look at Mandela’s enduring impact, his dedication to service, and the legacy he continues to inspire around the world.
Leonard Garfield, MOHAI’s Executive Director, emphasized the exhibition's alignment with MOHAI’s mission. "We are honored to bring 'Mandela: The Official Exhibition' to MOHAI and our community," he stated. "Nelson Mandela’s life story is a powerful testament to resilience, equity, and the transformative power of education—values that continue to shape our world today. This exhibition aligns with MOHAI’s commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of history and inspiring conversations that connect the past to the present."
Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, also shared his support for the exhibition. "The Royal House of Mandela is honored to support this exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela," he said. "It captures the essence of a global icon whose name is synonymous with solidarity, justice, and peace. This exhibition truly brings his story to life, and I believe all who experience it will feel the lasting impact of his work and vision."
In addition to Mandela’s story, MOHAI will also highlight his 1999 visit to Seattle and the city's role in the anti-apartheid movement, including the work of the Seattle Coalition Against Apartheid. It is noted that Mandela recognized Seattle as one of the first U.S. cities to boycott South African goods.
The exhibition is made possible with the support of several South African Heritage Partners, including The Robben Island Museum, The Liliesleaf Heritage Site, Mqhekezweni: The Great Place, Christo Brand, and Zelda la Grange. Generous support for the exhibition in Seattle is provided by The Boeing Company, Jon and Bobbe Bridge, and the MOHAI Exhibits Fund. Media support is provided by The Seattle Times and Cascade PBS.
"Mandela: The Official Exhibition" will be included with regular MOHAI admission. MOHAI is located at 860 Terry Ave. in Seattle, with exhibit gallery hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission to permanent exhibits is free on first Thursdays from 5-8 p.m. As part of the Museums For All program, low-income families can visit MOHAI for a minimal fee of $2 per person with the presentation of an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Regular admission is $25 for adults; $20 for military and senior citizens ages 65 and over; $19 for students; and free for youth (ages 14 and under, accompanied by a chaperone, maximum five youth admitted per chaperone), and MOHAI members.
