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red, white, and blue poster of Martin Luther King
Smithsonian Spotlight

1968: A Year in the Collections

A look back at 1968, a tumultuous, pivotal year marked by political and cultural change.
Ray Charles
National Portrait Gallery

Ray Charles

Born on this day in 1930, Ray Charles developed an original blend of blues and gospel that would ultimately make him the "father of soul music."
Michelle holding bull shark
Smithsonian Insider

Shark Detectives of the Chesapeake Bay

When many people think of the Chesapeake Bay, they think of the iconic blue crab. But parts of the bay are also home to several species of shark.
Bruce Springsteen
National Portrait Gallery

Born in the U.S.A.

Born on this day in 1949, Bruce Springsteen continues to be a powerful presence both in the American songbook and as a performer.
orchid
Smithsonian Spotlight

Orchids: Nature's Art

Smithsonian Gardens has more than 8,000 specimens. Explore a selection from the collection along with art inspired by these beautiful blooms.
dog figurine
Smithsonian Spotlight

Dog: Museum's Best Friend

Sit, stay, and explore dogs from across our collections.
3 bears caught on camera
Smithsonian Collaboration

eMammal: See Wildlife, Do Science

Place “camera traps” in your community to assist researchers in answering questions about mammal distribution and abundance.
Ai Weiwei with Skorton
Second Opinion

Ai Weiwei on Why Authoritarian Regimes Censor Art

The Chinese artist speaks with Smithsonian Secretary David J. Skorton on how art provides us with perspective on our own humanity.
Broadcast News cover
Smithsonian Spotlight

All That’s Old Is News Again

Explore news-related collection items from across the Smithsonian.
forest path
Second Opinion

Do You Have Reason to Be Optimistic about the Earth’s Future?

Join some of the world's leading thinkers in a spirited discussion about our ever changing planet.
1918 soldier's identity card
Smithsonian Spotlight

1918: A Year in the Collections

The year saw the end of the Great War along with new technologies put to use at home and on the battlefield. 
Amy Winehouse
Smithsonian Insider

What Makes a Great Rock 'n' Roll Photo?

Rock ’n’ roll musicians live forever in the mind’s eye thanks to iconic photos of them in their element, playing live.