This event is in the past.It took place on September 7, 2026 at Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

State Fairs: Growing American Craft 1
Decorative Exhibition
State Fairs: Growing American Craft 2
State Fairs: Growing American Craft 3

State Fairs: Growing American Craft

August 25 at 10am - September 7

At Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum

Northwest Washington, Washington

🧈"Absolutely fascinating! A life-size cow sculpted from 700 pounds of butter" (visitor review)
🌻Look for the seed and flower petal artworks
🚇No parking nearby, take Metro

A 700-pound Butter Cow and glowing pyramids of preserved food: this Renwick exhibition brings state fair oddities into the museum spotlight. From butter sculptures to prize-winning quilts, it celebrates the wild creativity of American competitive craft.

Butter sculptures
Prize-winning quilts
Interactive installations
Regional traditions