Babette Katz Featured in Smithsonian Exhibition
The 94-year-old artist's work is included in a new display at the National Museum of American History.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Seniors
Washington resident and artist Babette Katz has been selected for the new exhibition American Stories at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. The showcase explores identity and community through the work of over 50 American creators.
Why it matters
The exhibition highlights the intersection of personal narrative and historical documentation through the medium of artists' books. By showcasing diverse works, the museum provides a platform to examine evolving American perspectives.
The exhibition features works by more than 50 American artists, including a piece by 94-year-old printmaker Babette Katz. Her highlighted work, titled My Flag, was originally created in 1995 using linoleum cuts and narrative printmaking techniques.
The players
Babette Katz
She is a 94-year-old printmaker and book artist who creates narratives through linoleum cuts.
National Museum of American History
This Smithsonian institution in Washington, D.C., collects and preserves artifacts related to the history of the United States.
The details
Babette Katz, a resident of High Point at Broadview, utilizes traditional narrative printmaking to create her unique artists' books. Her inclusion in this Smithsonian display emphasizes her ongoing contribution to contemporary American book arts.
Timeline
Babette Katz created the book My Flag in 1995.
The American Stories exhibition opens on October 8, 2026.
Culture Shift
This exhibition aligns with a broader trend of utilizing institutional archives to validate contemporary craft and book arts. The show highlights how older artists remain central to current cultural dialogues regarding identity and history.
Residents of Washington can visit the exhibition at the National Museum of American History starting this October. The display offers an opportunity to view rare printmaking techniques and specific historical works from American artists.
The takeaway
Babette Katz's career demonstrates how creative engagement continues well into one's later years. Her work serves as a reminder that personal history remains a vital component of the broader American artistic narrative.
Further reading
Discover more stories about Seniors in the Washington area.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Westfair Communications.
