SAAM Stories

SAAM remembers the towering twentieth-century figurative painter, Philip Pearlstein.

In addition to her own success, Harlem Renaissance sculptor Augusta Savage dedicated her career to creating opportunities for Black artists.

Joseph Cornell, who was born in 1903 on Christmas Eve, often created handmade objects to give as gifts during the holidays.

An archivist looks at the important art and objects in the Joseph Cornell Study Center

A look at the extraordinary career of master metalsmith and painter Daniel Brush

A closer look at Joseph Cornell's work and his continuing influence, even 50 years after his death

SAAM’s video series, American Art Moments, takes a closer look at the monumental quilt The Harlem Hellfighters by Bisa Butler

Taking a closer look at Claggett Wilson’s watercolor paintings that depict his experiences as a combat marine in World War I 

Artist gwendolyn yoppolo focuses on creating meaningful relationships through a shared dining experience

Jaune Quick-To-See Smith (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Nation) was born on the Flathead Indian Reservation in western Montana in 1940. Throughout her long and distinguished career she has used her art to powerfully express her support for Native American communities

For centuries humans have been bringing the outside in, brightening up interior spaces by incorporating plants into homes and offices. Twice a year, horticulturists at the Smithsonian mimic rain and wind to help keep the trees in the Kogod Courtyard happy and thriving.

SAAM’s conservators find the delicate balance between original work and restoration through two dolls

Marie Watt honors veterans and Indigenous communities through simple objects that hold powerful stories

A look into the hilarious vampire mockumentary series that now appears to be haunting the museum halls.

Chicano artists and activists blended cultural and visual traditions to create modern Day of the Dead celebrations in the U.S.

SAAM educator Phoebe Hillemann reflects on creating resources to spark curiosity for learners of all ages who view William H. Johnson’s Fighters for Freedom series

Stephanie Stebich, SAAM's director, takes a look at exhibitions and programs and welcomes a new head curator to the museum.

A behind-the-scenes look at how 3D imaging helps a mural conservator preserve Judy Baca's Uprising of the Mujeres.