American Stories: Artists' Books from Smithsonian Libraries and Archives

About this event

Works of art inspired by books delve into personal, collective and national histories in Smithsonian Library and Archives’ new exhibition, “American Stories,” featuring more than 50 artists’ books from its collection. The exhibition explores American identity and experience through this versatile and inventive medium, and includes a commemoration of Native Hawaiian culture, a Louisiana community’s rituals as a hurricane rolls in and an artist’s celebration of her heritage through African and American fabrics. A variety of artists’ books will be on view, including one-of-a-kind works, examples from famed American artists such as Sol LeWitt and Ed Ruscha, and recent acquisitions from contemporary artists. Accompanying workshops and public programs will be announced later this year.