With few outdoor activities being held, it is the perfect time to visit a local museum. While only nine of the Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo have reopened to the public, there are still new exhibits and events being scheduled. Here are six new exhibits and events coming to the Smithsonian in the coming weeks.
Forces of Nature: Renwick Invitational 2020
Oct. 16-June 27, 2021
See how art is inspired by nature at the Renwick Gallery’s biennial showcase. This year’s featured artists (Lauren Fensterstock, Timothy Horn, Debora Moore and Rowland Ricketts) will show what they think it means to live in this chaotic world, separated from the physical landscape. // Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum: 1661 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Smithsonian Craft Show
Through Oct. 25
Celebrate the fine American crafts at the annual Smithsonian craft show. This year, the show has gone virtual, but will still host plenty of the same events, including the virtual gala and live online auction. You can also visit over 100 artist shops for the top craft and wearable pieces. // free entry
The Muppets Take American History
Oct. 30
The Muppets are heading to the Nation’s Capital. This series of displays will show some of your favorite Muppets characters, like Miss Piggy and Count von Count, taking in some of the museum’s other exhibitions. The characters will change locations two to three times a year. // National Museum of American History: 1300 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC
National Native American Veterans Memorial debut
Opening Nov. 11
Honor Native American veterans this Veterans Day at the new memorial outside of the National Museum of the American Indian. This memorial pays tribute to the Native American, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian veterans that joined the fight to protect the country. A virtual message about the memorial will be available on the museum’s website. // National Museum of the American Indian: Fourth Street and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
Every Eye is Upon Me: First Ladies of the United States
Nov. 13-May 23, 2021
Behind every president is an equally strong spouse. This exhibit explores the role of First Ladies through portraits. Spanning 250 years, guests can expect to see paintings of more than 60 First Ladies, from Martha Washington to Melania Trump. // National Portrait Gallery: 8th and G Streets, Washington, DC
¡Printing the Revolution! The Rise and Impact of Chicano Graphics, 1965 to Now
Nov. 20-Aug. 8, 2021
Many activists played a role during the 1960s, especially Chicano artists. This new exhibit shows how these artists from Mexican descent had a role in the art created during that period. ¡Printing the Revolution! also looks at how these Chicanx artists improved innovative printmaking practices when it comes to fighting for social justice. // Smithsonian American Art Museum: 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC
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