We live in a vibrant, colorful world! This First Friday, explore how artists capture the colors of nature through pigments, paints, and dyes.

Watch recreations of historical paint-making techniques, learn about the toxic beauty of poisonous pigments, examine the tools of the artist’s trade, and enjoy pop-up displays from our special collections. You’ll also learn about natural dyes like indigo and henna, and take home your very own henna design!

About First Fridays

Spark your curiosity while exploring the exhibits after hours! First Fridays bring together a myriad of activities covering everyday science, historical oddities, and everything in between. Grab your friends, and kick off an evening of discovery, surprise, and a little nerdy fun.

First Fridays at the Institute are always free and open to the public. Attendees will receive a 10% discount to National Mechanics restaurant.

More events

person doing research in a library
September 9, 2026
Free

Othmer Library Tour

Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!

advertisement featuring a uniformed woman with a lunchbox
September 12, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Back to School

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

monochrome image of a home with picket fence
September 12, 2026
Tours

Stuff from Your House Highlights Tour

Join our museum educators at 11:30am and 2pm as we explore the scientific principles and history behind everyday household objects.

    Republish

    Copy the above HTML to republish this content. We have formatted the material to follow our guidelines, which include our credit requirements. Please review our full list of guidelines for more information. By republishing this content, you agree to our republication requirements.