Smithsonian American Art Museum

a CILC Content Provider

The Smithsonian American Art Museum, the nation’s first collection of American art, is dedicated to collecting, understanding, and enjoying American art. The Museum celebrates the extraordinary creativity of artists whose works reflect the American experience and global connections.

Distance learning programs are generously supported by the American Battle Monuments Commission and the Robert and Mercedes Eichholz Foundation.

2023-2024

2022-2023

Honorable Mention

2020-2021

2018-2019

2017-2018

Honorable Mention

2015-2016

Honorable Mention

Programs by Smithsonian American Art Museum

A House Divided: Civil War--Free Program

The Civil War tested and consumed the country for more than four years. Explore how this great conflict and subsequent Reconstruction period are depicted through the traditional mediums of painting and sculpture, as well as the then new medium of...

African American Artists--Free Program

The lives of African American artists lend insight into the context of their works. Learn about the diverse body of artwork created by African American artists and the historical, social, and cultural events, as well as the life experiences, that...

America's Signs & Symbols--Free Program

Artists use familiar icons such as the Statue of Liberty, the bald eagle, and the American flag to communicate their ideas about American culture and encourage examination of our society.

American Indians--Free Program

American Indians are part of the past, present, and future of the United States. Explore histories and cultures of some American Indians as captured by both Native and non-Native artists. Discuss the influence of geography, tradition, and tribal...

Art and Monuments: Honoring Memory and Service

As sites of our national memory, American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) cemeteries honor the service and sacrifice of US soldiers overseas. As the national institution that documents America’s stories through art, the Smithsonian American Art...

Asian American Artists--Free Program

Asian American artists are integral to the multifaceted story of American art. Explore their artwork and discuss the life experiences, historic events, and cultural connections that inspire their artistic practice.

Contemporary Craft Works--Free Program

Craft artists push beyond traditions by testing the limits of materials and techniques. Whether using clay, metal, glass, or fiber, these artists create works that blur the lines between art and craft and encourage us to see everyday objects in...

Educator Orientation to SAAM Videoconferences

Preview the Smithsonian American Art Museum's 12 videoconference topics and learn strategies to teach multiple disciplines using art during an interactive, conversation-driven session with museum staff. Focus on one topic or explore multiple...

Found Object Artworks--Free Program

From beads to bottlecaps, tinfoil to toys, artists have used many nontraditional materials to express themselves and create art. This videoconference covers how artists use everyday materials, vision and imagination, storytelling, and a sense of...

Free Program--Latino Art and Culture

The concept of a collective Latino identity began to emerge in the United States in the mid-20th century. Explore how Latino artists shaped the artistic movements of their day, often using their work to communicate with a larger public about...

Free Program--Lure of the West

Part geography and part mythology, the American West retains a powerful allure in popular culture. Explore depictions of the people, lifestyles, and landscapes of the 19th century West to better understand this dynamic period of history.

Free Program--To See Is to Think

In a world filled with images, it is important to be visually literate. While exploring artworks that represent various time periods, styles, and mediums, students will: 1) build a visual vocabulary and learn how to form interpretations based on...

Free Program--Young America

The transition from colonial rule to national independence was a pivotal time in American history. Students will explore colonial and early federal art that tells the story of growing national ambitions, territorial expansion, and the beginning of...

Social Commentary | Social Action--Free Program

Artists living in America have often visualized and engaged with social issues through their artistic practice. Students will examine 18th-21st century art to discover the range of approaches artists have used to make their voices heard.

Type of Organization

Arts/Cultural/Museum

Contact

Rebecca Fulcher AmericanArtEducation@si.edu
Smithsonian American Art Museum, MRC 970
Washington DC 20013-7012
(202) 633-8537
United States

https://americanart.si.edu/education/k-12/videoconferences

Primary Disciplines

The programs of Smithsonian American Art Museum cover:

Art
Culture
Fine Arts
Language Arts/English
Literacy
Problem Solving
Professional Development
History & Social Studies

Awards, Quotes, Testimonials

"Our kids loved the virtual tour. You'll be hearing from other teachers here."
Fifth-Grade Teacher

"Thanks for an outstanding, comprehensive presentation. Particularly helpful were comparisons and contrasts and history and attitudes."
Coordinator, Senior Adult Programs, County Recreation Department

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Programs by Smithsonian American Art Museum

A House Divided: Civil War--Free Program

African American Artists--Free Program

America's Signs & Symbols--Free Program

American Indians--Free Program

Art and Monuments: Honoring Memory and Service

Asian American Artists--Free Program

Contemporary Craft Works--Free Program

Educator Orientation to SAAM Videoconferences

Found Object Artworks--Free Program

Free Program--Latino Art and Culture

Free Program--Lure of the West

Free Program--To See Is to Think

Free Program--Young America

Social Commentary | Social Action--Free Program

More About This Provider

Type of Organization

Contact

Primary Disciplines

Awards, Quotes, Testimonials