Arts
Creative achievements in literature and the visual and performing arts
The Meals That Starving Travelers Dream Of
Daydreaming of food is a tradition as old as the saga of man versus wild. What would you wish to eat if you were starving in a tent or a dinghy at sea?
November 28, 2012 |
By Alastair Bland
A New Life for Old Breweries
In response to a changing economy and demographic shift toward urban areas, the deserted homes of Schlitz, PBR and other beers are being repurposed
November 28, 2012 |
By Jimmy Stamp
Why Do We Hiccup? And Other Scientific Mysteries—Seen Through the Eyes of Artists
In a new book, 75 artists illustrate questions scientists haven't fully answered yet
November 28, 2012 |
By Megan Gambino
Amy Henderson: A Portrait is a Story Unfolding
Artist Everett Raymond Kinstler's portrait of the legendary performer Christopher Plummer joins the collection as Kinstler is honored by The Players Club in New York City
November 28, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
These Geometrical Shapes Are Diagrams of Human Consciousness
A late 19th century New Zealand psychologist attempted to depict various states of consciousness with geometric shapes
November 26, 2012 |
By Rachel Nuwer
Photos: The National Hockey League Turns 95
Though the league is currently in another lockout, the Smithsonian collections have plenty of memorabilia from the sport's history in the United States
November 26, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
Events November 27-29: Johnny Mercer, Contemporary Middle Eastern Art and Handi-hour
This week, review the musical genius of Capitol Records co-founder, examine identity in Middle Eastern art and start your stitching
November 26, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
Where Did Pabst Win that Blue Ribbon?
The origin of Pabst's iconic blue ribbon dates back to one of the most important gatherings in American history
November 20, 2012 |
By Jimmy Stamp
The Science of Cooking a Turkey, and Other Thanksgiving Dishes
In a new book, the editors of Cook's Illustrated share some secrets to preparing the perfect holiday feast
November 20, 2012 |
By Megan Gambino
Insider Visitor Tips for the Holiday Weekend
Must-see exhibits, little known facts and veteran visitor wisdom for your Thanksgiving weekend at the Smithsonian
November 20, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
Another Smash Hit on the Thanksgiving Tour: Rovaldi’s “Opening Day”
The next must-see item in our roundup of family-friendly Smithsonian stops is an homage to both baseball and video art
November 19, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
Giving Thanks to Clothes That Stretch
Seeking comfort, holiday diners will don elastic to indulge their expanding waistlines. They should thank Thomas Hancock and his "masticator"
November 19, 2012 |
By Emily Spivack
Events November 20-22: A Nation’s River, Observations and Festive Foods
This week, Alexandra Cousteau discusses the Potomac, kids can gaze at the skies and the whole family can enjoy a fun-filled Thanksgiving
November 19, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
At American Art: A New Look on How Artists Recorded the Civil War
A groundbreaking exhibit presents the Civil War through the eyes of artists uncertain of the conflict's outcome, shedding fresh light on the events
November 16, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
Trash as Treasure: Crocheting Plastic Coral Reefs
With yarn made from discarded plastic bags, Australian artist Helle Jorgensen stitches delicate sculptures of corals
November 16, 2012 |
By Megan Gambino
James Bond’s Dapper Dinner Jackets
With their origins at a London bespoke tailor, the suits of 007 are sharp—almost as sharp as a dagger shoe
November 16, 2012 |
By Emily Spivack
Australian Students Accidentally Taught That Robots Led the Russian Revolution
Nearly 6,000 Australian students were inadvertently taught this week that giant robots led the Russian Revolution thanks to a sloppy exam staff Google job
November 15, 2012 |
By Rachel Nuwer
Events November 16-18: Ang Lee, Muscogee and Thelonious Monk, Jr.
This weekend, watch an Ang Lee classic, celebrate American Indian Heritage Month and listen to the famous musician's son perform
November 15, 2012 |
By Leah Binkovitz
The World’s Largest Collection of Coffee Cup Lids
With over 500 different disposable plastic lids, the architect-collector has pieced together a history of American innovation and culture
November 15, 2012 |
By K. Annabelle Smith
Jason Moran: Making Jazz Personal
How a MacArthur Genius Fellow is using his life experience and musical genius to engge youth in jazz
November 14, 2012 |
By Joann Stevens

