How a group of museum ambassadors transformed Smithsonian funding through fine American craft
In short: In 1966, a visionary plan to expand the Smithsonian led to the creation of a unique committee. Driven by the wife of Secretary S. Dillon Ripley, this volunteer group moved from hosting glamorous charity balls to establishing a massive grant-making engine fueled by the beauty of American artistry.
The Smithsonian Women’s Committee (SWC) began as an ambitious effort to reinvigorate the institution. Under the leadership of Secretary S. Dillon Ripley, the group originally operated as a ladies' auxiliary for the Smithsonian Associates. While early activities included collecting botanical and insect specimens for the National Museum of Natural History, the committee soon became famous for hosting Washington's most prestigious charity dances, including a 1971 event held near the museum's bull elephant.
Seeking a sustainable way to fund grants, the committee pivoted toward the arts. Following a suggestion from Renwick Gallery Director Lloyd Herman, the SWC launched the first Smithsonian Craft Show in April 1983. This event evolved into a national showcase for diverse mediums, including ceramics, glass, and wearable art. By 2005, they expanded their portfolio with the Craft2Wear Show, specifically celebrating high-quality American-made accessories and clothing.
The impact of this fundraising is tangible. The SWC has provided nearly $11 million in grants and endowments to the Smithsonian. These funds support critical infrastructure, such as the National Portrait Gallery's production equipment, which has since reduced in-house graphic production costs by 25 to 55 percent. Beyond hardware, the committee honors excellence through the Smithsonian Visionary Award, the Sustainability Award (established in 2015), and the 2021 Delphi Award for mid-career artists.
Today, the committee's work addresses the Smithsonian's 'Grand Challenges,' ranging from understanding the American experience to sustaining a biodiverse planet. Through auctions and signature shows, these volunteer ambassadors continue to provide the seed money necessary for research and museum projects that might otherwise lack the scale for major institutional funding.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: The Smithsonian Women’s Committee
- Also: A Proud History | Smithsonian Women's Committee
- Also: Thanks to the Smithsonian Women’s Committee | National Portrait Gallery
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