An Artist’s View of WWI and How to Preserve His Portraits of War
Taking a closer look at Claggett Wilson’s watercolor paintings that depict his experiences as a combat marine in World War I
SAAM Stories
SAAM Stories is the blog of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and Renwick Gallery. Publishing behind-the-scenes museum stories since 2005.
Contemporary Craft in Focus: scoopbowl service
Contemporary Craft in Focus: scoopbowl service
Artist gwendolyn yoppolo focuses on creating meaningful relationships through a shared dining experience
Drawn to Jaune Quick-To-See Smith
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
Shake It Off: Trees Gonna Sway, Sway, Sway
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.
Possum Trot Dolls Get a Wardrobe Refresh
SAAM’s conservators find the delicate balance between original work and restoration through two dolls
Native American Arts in Focus: Edson’s Flag
Native American Arts in Focus: Edson’s Flag
Marie Watt honors veterans and Indigenous communities through simple objects that hold powerful stories
What We Do In the Art Museum Shadows
A look into the hilarious vampire mockumentary series that now appears to be haunting the museum halls.
Traditions and Change: The Transformation of Día de los Muertos in the United States
Chicano artists and activists blended cultural and visual traditions to create modern Day of the Dead celebrations in the U.S.
Discovering William H. Johnson’s Hidden Stories
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
Director's Letter: A Season of Artful Changes
Stephanie Stebich, SAAM's director, takes a look at exhibitions and programs and welcomes a new head curator to the museum.
Using 3D Imaging To Preserve Chicana Artist Judy Baca’s Mural Uprising of the Mujeres
Using 3D Imaging To Preserve Chicana Artist Judy Baca’s Mural Uprising of the Mujeres
A behind-the-scenes look at how 3D imaging helps a mural conservator preserve Judy Baca's Uprising of the Mujeres.
Drawn to Judy Baca
Judith Baca is a Chicana artist, professor, arts administrator, community leader, and social and cultural activist, whose murals and paintings give voice to underrepresented communities.
Judy Baca On Her Mural Uprising of the Mujeres
Judy Baca On Her Mural Uprising of the Mujeres
SAAM talks with the artist about her inspirations and the process of creating a portable mural
A Family Affair: Collecting American Self-Taught Art
Collector Douglas O. Robson offers insights into his mother’s collecting habits, her dedication to self-taught artists, and his own collecting journey.
Comic Series Presents Ten (More) Stories About Visionaries and Rule Breakers
The comic series Drawn to Art, published online by the Smithsonian American Art Museum, features tales of inspiring women artists.
