The Henry Ford Opens New Exhibition, Handmade: The Crafting of America

(Dearborn, Mich. — March 17, 2026) — A new exhibition celebrating the ingenuity, creativity and cultural significance of handmade objects will soon open in the Collections Gallery in Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. Handmade: The Crafting of America, features over 100 artifacts representing a wide array of folk art, textile work, ceramics, and pottery. The exhibit runs from March 21 until January 18, 2027.

From practical beginnings to bold modern expressions, Handmade: The Crafting of America traces the evolution of American craft and the enduring role of skilled makers in shaping everyday life. Featuring a wide range of artifacts solely from The Henry Ford's collections, the exhibition explores how handmade objects reflect stories of resilience, resourcefulness and entrepreneurship across generations.

Visitors will discover how Americans have long relied on craftsmanship to solve problems, express creativity and build community—from functional objects created out of necessity to contemporary works that push artistic boundaries. Through these objects, the exhibition reveals why people create, who they create for, and how craft traditions continue to evolve.

The exhibition is part of The Henry Ford's broader programming commemorating the nation's 250th anniversary. Throughout 2026, the institution will present new exhibitions, programs and experiences that explore the ideas, innovations and movements that have shaped the American story.

About The Henry Ford
Located in Dearborn, Michigan, The Henry Ford, a globally recognized destination, fosters inspiration and learning from hands-on encounters with artifacts that represent the most comprehensive collection anywhere focusing on innovation, ingenuity and resourcefulness in America. Its unique venues include Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, Ford Rouge Factory Tour, Benson Ford Research Center and Henry Ford Academy, a public charter high school. Together with its online presence at thf.org and Invention Convention Worldwide, the growing affiliation of organizations fostering innovation, invention and entrepreneurship in K-12 students, The Henry Ford is a force for inspiring every individual to innovate, create and invent. For more information, visit thehenryford.org.