US EditionNew Smithsonian exhibit highlights American fairs, including crop art, butter from Minnesota
HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA, AUG 22 – The Smithsonian exhibition highlights 19th-century to present crafts from state fairs, featuring 800 pounds of butter sculptures and presidential portraits, marking the U.S. 250th anniversary.
- On Aug. 22, 2025, the Smithsonian American Art Museum opens State Fairs: Growing American Craft, which runs through Sept. 7, 2026.
- Driven by Minnesota’s fair heritage, Savig researched in 2023 at the Minnesota State Fair, the first major exhibition to survey the unique arts and crafts cultivated by American state fairs, from the 19th century to today, says Mary Savig.
- Featuring significant Minnesota crop art, the exhibit includes works by 'Seed Queen' Lillian Colton and Linda Paulsen, including 'Dolly Parton'.
- Controversy has emerged over the butter sculptor choice, as Savig says she hopes Minnesotans forgive her and give the butter cow a chance.
- Positioned amid the United States’ 250th anniversary, the exhibit highlights presidential portraits by Colton and Paulsen, with Savig saying it aims to spotlight underrecognized artists.
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