The Clinton Presidential Center’s next temporary exhibit, The White House Collection of American Crafts: 25th Anniversary Exhibit, opens Sept. 17 and will be on display until March 31. The collection was gathered in 1993 to celebrate “The Year of American Craft,” a joint resolution of Congress and a presidential proclamation by President George H. W. Bush.
The exhibition first debuted during the Clinton family’s first holiday season in the White House. After that, the exhibit traveled across the country until 2000. The Clinton Center showing will mark the first time in 18 years that “The White House Collection of American Crafts” has been on display.
The collection houses 73 works by 78 American artists. The functional pieces showcase a wide range of talent and mediums, with a focus on handmade art. Six Arkansas artists are part of the collection including potters Michael Haley and Susy Siegele; wood artist Robyn Horn; basket makers Leon Niehues and Sharon Niehues; and glass artist Ed Pennebaker.
“Mrs. Clinton took her role as First Lady and temporary custodian of America’s house very seriously,” said Stephanie S. Streett, executive director of the Clinton Foundation. “She worked tirelessly to make the White House a showplace for the very best of American artistry. With this exhibition, she hoped to elevate the role and visibility of American Craft and its artisans. Mrs. Clinton has always believed in the power of art to uplift and inspire, and I’m thrilled that visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to see this beautiful collection in its entirety.”
To find out more about the upcoming exhibit, head to the Clinton Center’s website.