2023 Smithsonian Craft Show Preview Night Party

This year’s Smithsonian Craft Show “Celebrating the American Spirit” launched on May 3 with an opportunity to meet the artists and shop their work while enjoying cocktails and a buffet reception. The Craft show, under the aegis of Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III alongside Honorary Chair and Director of the National Museum of the American Indian Cynthia Chavez Lamar, is spearheaded by the Smithsonian Women’s Committee.  Dr. Lamar is pleased the show features the art of 13 Native artists whose work highlights some of the many craft traditions found throughout Native America. 

With Peg Butner, Elaine Cole and Anne Keiser serving as this year’s Co-chairs, the event at the National Building Museum brought together 120 accomplished artists of American craft. Proceeds will support important educational and scientific projects throughout the Smithsonian Institution.  

The Visionary Artist Award was presented to Chunghi Choo and Mary Lee Hu, distinguished artists in metal sculptural arts and design. Glassmaker Amber Cowan received The Delphi Award for outstanding use of traditional materials or works of exceptional artistry. 

tags"Celebrating the American Spirit"Amber CowanAnne KeiserChunghi ChoocraftcraftsCynthia Chavez LamarElaine ColeLonnie G. Bunch IIIMary Lee HuNational Building MuseumPeg ButnerSmithsoniansmithsonian craftSmithsonian Craft ShowSmithsonian Women’s Committee