Can You Mount An Art Exhibition About Race in The Age of Trump?

August 22, 2025

The Smithsonian's exhibition "The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture" has become a focal point of controversy after being criticized in a Trump executive order for its examination of how sculpture has reinforced racist ideologies. The exhibition, which displays 82 sculptures dating from 1792 to 2023, aims to encourage transparent dialogue about race and racism through art history. In response to the criticism, the Smithsonian has begun reviewing content across its museums, raising concerns about potential limitations on candid discussions of American history.

Who is affected

Visitors to the Smithsonian's American Art Museum exhibition
Artists featured in the exhibition, including student collaborators like Sasa Aakil
Contemporary artists like Roberto Lugo whose work addresses racial classifications
The Smithsonian Institution and its curatorial staff
American citizens whose understanding of national history through art may be impacted
Museum professionals concerned about institutional independence

What action is being taken

The Smithsonian is conducting a review of content across its museums to ensure it meets their standards
The Trump administration has issued an executive order condemning the exhibition
Vice President JD Vance, who serves on the Smithsonian's Board of Regents, has been tasked with stopping government spending on exhibits that don't align with the administration's agenda
Lindsey Halligan, a White House official, is working to identify "improper ideology" at the Smithsonian
The exhibition continues to display works that examine racial narratives in American sculpture

Why it matters

The controversy highlights tensions between historical accuracy and national identity in public institutions
The Smithsonian, as the world's largest museum complex, sets precedents for how American history is presented
The review could potentially limit candid discussions about race and America's complicated past
Previous controversies have led to changes in Smithsonian exhibitions, suggesting this review might impact content
The debate centers on fundamental questions about art's purpose in society and whether museums should prioritize unity or critical examination
The exhibition challenges long-standing interpretations of celebrated American sculptures

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint