History off the Clock

Wednesday, March 12, 2025
7:00 pm - Doors at 6:30
Corvallis Museum
Corvallis Museum

History off the Clock

Wednesday, March 12, 2025
7:00 pm - Doors at 6:30

Joe Nicola will discuss video game history from 1977 to present day, based on Jordan Minor’s book “Video Game of the Year”. His talk will focus on ten standout examples from a list of more than fifty games that exemplify the “Game of the Year” status, according to leading games historians and journalists. 

Additionally, 64 Bits or Less will set up interactive retro gaming consoles throughout the galleries, where attendees can engage with nostalgic video games!

“History off the Clock” is for anyone with a zest for learning and a love for all things nerdy

For accommodations related to a disability, please email education@bentoncountymuseums.org

Retro Games logo (1)

Attractions

Play your favorite classic console games on the original hardware! Retro video game consoles will be available throughout the museum galleries. Thanks to our sponsor, 64 Bits or Less

  • Doors open at 6:30, lecture at 7:00.
  • Galleries will remain open throughout the night for gaming and nostalgia!
  • View responsive art works by local artists on display in the Collins room!
  • Enjoy a beverage at the no-host bar.

Tickets: $15
Purchase tickets now!

Picture of a white man, aged 20-30, with a reddish beard

About the presenter

Joe Nicola is a human resident of the planet Earth in the Western Spiral Arm of the Milky Way Galaxy, born in Norfolk, VA in 1982. Learned how to build and fix computers in order to play games on them. Was frequently the only one in the house who could hook up a game console to a TV and/or sound system. Former in-game support “wizard” in an MMO, reformed IT Guy, Design Lead for Guardians Mental Health, and founder of a yet-to-be-named travelling Video Game Art Exhibition. Currently teaching painting and other assorted extended learning classes at LBCC.
irrezolut.com

image of artist painting on canvas

Call for Artists

As part of our “History off the Clock” lecture series, the Benton County Historical Society is accepting submissions of 2D artwork that speak to the cultural significance of video games in our society. This exhibition is open to professional or amateur artists residing in Oregon.

This exhibition seeks to celebrate the history of video games. How has the invention and development of video games impacted our society throughout recent history? What role do video games play in your life, and how has that changed over time?

Artwork will be displayed in the Corvallis Museum from March 5th – March 30th.

Art submission guidelines and application

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