A dazzling selection of saddle blankets, horse covers and other textiles dating back 1,300 years illustrates the vital role horses have played in Asian civilizations.
The museum shines a light on abstract work by notable 20th- and 21st-century female artists. More than 70 pieces on display in an array of media explore themes of representation, identity and power.
Three exhibitions capture the enduring influence of Henri Matisse. In “To See This Light Again,” works by the 20th-century French icon and Maryland painter Louis Fratino are juxtaposed, creating a dialogue between figural studies. “Matisse and Martinique” highlights how the Caribbean influenced the artist’s work, and “Matisse in Vence” examines the mural he created for […]
“Miró and the United States” reflects on the creative transatlantic symbiosis that occurred among Spanish artist Joan Miró (1893 to 1983) and his American artistic contemporaries, including Alexander Calder, Lee Krasner, Jackson Pollock and Helen Frankenthaler, during the post-war period from the 1940s to the 1960s.
A retrospective on the career of late New York artist Shirley Gorelick centers on three large-scale figure paintings along with more than 30 related paintings, drawings and prints that embody her bold, realist style.
An installation by conceptual artist Rachel Lee Hovnanian invites viewers to surrender their smartphones and immerse themselves in the BMA’s Spring House, which she has transformed into a natural oasis. She created the escape in hopes that it allows visitors “to rediscover how it feels to be fully present.”
A pair of paintings shown side by side illustrate how Hiroshi Senju and Bingyi reimagine their cultures’ rich artistic traditions. The former applies modern techniques to traditional Japanese methods, while the latter draws on historic Chinese ink painting in his approach. Though dramatically different, both pieces celebrate the beauty and power of water.
More than 100 works on paper represent the American experience through ruminations on the country’s landscape, people and concepts of freedom. The exhibit includes photographs by Carleton Watkins, Dorothea Lange and Carrie Mae Weems; prints by Thomas Hart Benton, Roy Lichtenstein and Rupert García; and drawings by Thomas Moran, John Wilson and Tonita Peña.
Honoring the United States’ 250th birthday, this exhibit documents historic scenes that have unfolded at many of Washington’s most notable landmarks. In addition to mainstream imagery, depictions of laborers, activists and artists across generations add a new perspective to history.
Expressing himself through moving images, sound, poetry and photography, Native American artist Sky Hopinka forges powerful ties between language and landscape. Videos (including one of his grandmother), photos and large-scale calligrams […]
This exhibit explores the history and beauty of paintings made for Hindu kings in India’s northern Pahari region between the 1620s and 1830s. A study of 48 works on view, […]
A trip to South Africa inspired Douriean Fletcher to design jewelry as a way to explore her identity and cultural heritage. Known for dramatic pieces made from natural materials, the […]
This annual self-guided tour gives attendees the opportunity to step inside some of the impressive homes and gardens in one of DC’s most charming and historic neighborhoods. A Parish tea at St. John’s Episcopal Church follows.
The Smithsonian Craft Show returns to the National Building Museum, filling its Great Hall with an array of collectibles from April 23rd to 26th. Now in its 44th year, the juried event spotlights more than 120 artisans representing varied disciplines, from basketry, ceramics and decorative fiber to furniture, glass, mixed-media and wearable art. Ceramicist Wayne Higby […]
