How Now, Butter Cow? The Making of the Renwick’s State Fairs: Growing American Craft Exhibition

Arts and Industries Building (South Hall) and Online
900 Jefferson Drive, SW, Washington, DC
Free | Visit D.C. Schedule | Smithsonian Folklife Festival for more information

A life-sized cow carved out of butter is one of the many amazing objects highlighted in the exhibition State Fairs: Growing American Craft at SAAM’s Renwick Gallery.

Learn how the butter cow was constructed, how it is maintained, and many other behind-the-scenes details about the exhibition, from the team behind it. Mary Savig, Fleur and Charles Bresler Curator‑in‑Charge of the Renwick Gallery, will moderate a panel that includes objects conservator Leah Bright, exhibition designer Meghan O’Loughlin, and award‑winning butter sculptor Sarah Pratt. Together, they’ll offer an inside look at the creativity, conservation, and craftsmanship, that makes this exhibition a cornerstone of the Smithsonian’s 250th celebration.

ASL interpretation and live captioning will be available both in person and on the livestream video. Presented by Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. Please note that this program takes place in the Arts and Industries Building and online via YouTube.