Smithsonian traveling exhibit coming to Mission

MISSION, S.D. - A Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition is making its way to Mission, South Dakota. SPARK! Places of Innovation celebrates ingenuity in rural America, highlighting the people, places, and circumstances that have driven groundbreaking ideas.

The free exhibit will be hosted at Sinte Gleska University from Jan. 18 to March 1.

Inspired by the National Museum of American History, the exhibition shares stories from diverse communities across the country. Visitors can explore through interactive displays, photographs, artifacts, videos, and augmented reality, all designed to showcase the leaders, challenges, and successes behind rural innovation.

Each of the five SPARK! tour locations will include unique programming provided by the host venues, adding a local perspective to the national story.

A highlight of the exhibition is its full translation into the Lakota language, thanks to Alex Fire Thunder, Richard Two Dogs, and Robert Two Crow. These translations, along with Spanish versions, are now a permanent part of the Smithsonian's touring materials.

In addition to Mission, the exhibit will travel to Eagle Butte, Rapid City, Huron, and Aberdeen.