This October, the spirit of the '90s grunge scene comes alive at Tacoma Art Museum with the unveiling of Charles Peterson’s Nirvana. This exhibition is a deep dive into the raw energy and emotion of an era that defined a generation, all through the lens of Charles Peterson, a photographer whose work became synonymous with the grunge movement.

Peterson captured the essence of Nirvana, the band that brought grunge from the garages of the PNW to the global stage, making "Smells Like Teen Spirit" more than just a song but an anthem for the disaffected. His black-and-white photos go beyond the music, capturing the sweat, the intensity, and the sheer power of live performances. For the first time, some of these epic shots will be hanging on museum walls, giving visitors a front-row seat to concerts from the past.

It's not just about seeing Nirvana through Peterson's eyes; it's about feeling the pulse of a live concert, the camaraderie of the crowd, and the unbridled energy of frontman Kurt Cobain as he belts out "Come As You Are." It’s a visual journey back to a time when music was loud, life was messy, and everything felt incredibly real.

This immersive experience that promises to "Drain You" of the mundane and transport you back to a time when music was a revolution. Open from Oct. 5, 2024, to May 25, 2025, it’s a chance to witness the legacy of a band that changed the music scene forever, proving that "All Apologies" aside, grunge is far from dead.

Here's a couple shots to start the time-warp...

Charles Peterson's Nirvana at Tacoma Art Museum

Charles Peterson's Nirvana at Tacoma Art Museum

Charles Peterson's Nirvana at Tacoma Art Museum

Charles Peterson's Nirvana at Tacoma Art Museum

Charles Peterson's Nirvana at Tacoma Art Museum