Exploring the Legacy of 'Objects: USA 2020'

Weaving's Concierge

'Objects: USA 2020' revisits an iconic exhibition that debuted in 1969 at the Smithsonian Institution, marking a transformative moment in the world of American art. This groundbreaking event showcased a diverse group of artist-craftspeople who were redefining artistic practices through craft media.

The original exhibition toured twenty-two museums across the United States and was seen by over half a million visitors, before making its way to eleven cities in Europe. It served as a platform for celebrated artists such as Anni Albers, Sheila Hicks, and Wendell Castle, while also introducing emerging talents like Dale Chihuly and Michele Oka Doner, who would later gain acclaim in the art community.

In 'Objects: USA 2020,' fifty participants from the original exhibition are paired with fifty contemporary artists, creating a dialogue between historical and modern interpretations of craft. This connection highlights how traditional methods and materials continue to be adapted and challenged in contemporary art.

Published alongside an exhibition at the esteemed R & Company gallery, this book features insightful essays from renowned authorities in the field, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of craft as a respected form of art. The book serves not only as a historical reference but also as a roadmap for the future of artistic expression.

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