The Object at Hand: Intriguing and Inspiring Stories from the Smithsonian Collections
Beth Py-Lieberman, Richard Kurin
Questions & Answers
The Smithsonian Institution's collection reflects the diverse themes of American history and culture through its artifacts and historical items. Audacity is exemplified by objects like the Apollo Flight Guidance Computer Software and the rhinestone-encrusted painting of a Black woman, showcasing daring innovation and self-agency. Deception is highlighted by the counterfeit artifacts and the 19th-century glass ballot jar, revealing the lengths people go to deceive and the tools used to prevent it. Loss is evident in items like the Amelia Earhart's Lockheed Vega 5B and the last passenger pigeon, Martha, symbolizing the tragic consequences of human actions. Desire is seen in objects like Frida Kahlo's love letter and the original "Box of 64" crayons, reflecting the deep personal and societal desires. Optimism is embodied by artifacts like Lincoln's top hat and the Ruby Slippers, symbolizing hope and aspirations. Triumph is celebrated through items like the Ed Roberts's wheelchair and the Cassius Clay's training gloves, representing mastery and success. Lastly, playfulness is found in objects like the Mingering Mike Collection of Album Covers and the Fugees Family artifacts, showcasing the lighter side of American culture and creativity.
Narrative and storytelling play a crucial role in connecting the past to the present by providing context, emotions, and personal connections to historical events and objects. These stories humanize history, making it relatable and meaningful. In the context of the Smithsonian collections, the stories of these objects contribute to our understanding of American values and experiences by illustrating themes like audacity, loss, triumph, and desire.
For instance, the story of the Star-Spangled Banner connects the nation's struggle for freedom with its enduring symbol of patriotism. The tale of Chuck Berry's Cadillac Eldorado shows how music has been a powerful force in American culture, reflecting the country's diversity and creativity. The narrative of the Tlingit Killer Whale hat replica highlights the importance of cultural heritage and the respect for tradition.
These stories also reveal the complexities of American values, such as the struggle for equality, the impact of historical events like slavery and the Tulsa massacre, and the ongoing quest for social justice. By sharing these stories, the Smithsonian helps us reflect on our shared history, learn from past mistakes, and celebrate the triumphs and challenges that have shaped the American experience.
The thematic organization of the book using words like "audacity," "deception," and "optimism" serves as a lens through which complex ideas and emotions are explored. These themes allow the reader to delve into the stories of objects, uncovering the human experiences and societal values they embody. For instance, "audacity" highlights the bravery and innovation behind inventions and social movements, while "deception" exposes the complexities of truth and trust. "Optimism" reveals the resilience and hope that drive progress and personal growth.
This thematic structure reveals the interconnectedness of the Smithsonian's collections by illustrating how seemingly disparate objects share underlying themes and narratives. It shows that the collections are not just a collection of artifacts, but a tapestry of human experiences and cultural history. The thematic organization underscores the idea that the Smithsonian's vast holdings are interconnected, reflecting the diverse and complex nature of human existence and the shared human journey.
The objects in the book challenge traditional narratives and expand understanding of American history in several ways:
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Race: The Nat Turner's Bible and Prince Simbo's gunpowder holder highlight the struggle for freedom and self-determination, showcasing the pivotal roles of enslaved individuals in the fight against slavery.
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Gender: The story of Gladys Bentley, a jazz singer who challenged gender norms, and the portrayal of women like Louisa May Alcott's Jo March, who challenged societal expectations, demonstrate the complexities of gender identity and roles in American history.
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Social Justice: The Billie Jean King's Battle of the Sexes tennis dress and the Sí Se Puede poster from the César Chávez-led United Farm Workers movement showcase the fight for equality and social justice, particularly in the realms of sports and labor rights.
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Representation: The Tlingit Killer Whale Hat Replica and the portrait of Mary Golda Ross, a Native American woman who contributed to the space race, challenge the underrepresentation of Indigenous peoples and women in historical narratives.
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Revelation: The uncovering of the story behind the Shonke Mon-thi^ bust and the investigation of the Tulsa Race Massacre reveal hidden histories and the ongoing struggle for racial justice and recognition.
The book "The Object at Hand" contributes to the Smithsonian's mission by showcasing the stories behind its vast collections, making complex historical and scientific information accessible and engaging. By focusing on themes like audacity, deception, and loss, the book encourages readers to explore the objects' narratives, fostering curiosity and understanding. This aligns with the Smithsonian's goal of increasing and diffusing knowledge.
The book suggests that museums will continue to evolve as centers for storytelling and community engagement. It highlights the role of museums in preserving and interpreting history, science, and culture, emphasizing their importance in addressing societal issues and inspiring future generations. The inclusion of diverse perspectives and the emphasis on the impact of objects on individuals and communities underscore the evolving role of museums as dynamic institutions that shape societal discourse.