The New York State Office of Cultural Education is excited to announce the launch of a new video series, “Look at This!”—a lively, behind-the-scenes journey that pulls back the curtain to show viewers the often unseen quirky, captivating, and surprising collections housed in the state’s cultural institutions.

Created to engage audiences of all ages, “Look at This!” spotlights the unexpected and conversation-starting objects from the extensive holdings of the New York State Museum, Library, and Archives. Season one kicks off with eleven episodes featuring the Museum’s most curious artifacts—from oddball inventions such as dog treadmills and egg vending machines to endearing relics like the Beech-Nut Circus Bus. Each video is roughly two minutes long and presented with nostalgia, historical insight, and a sense of wonder.

Interim Deputy Commissioner for Cultural Education Michael Mastroianni said, “This series is all about sharing the joy and wonder of discovery. We have millions of artifacts, specimens, and items in our possession and these collections belong to all New Yorkers. ‘Look at This!’ offers a fun, accessible way for everyone to explore some of the State’s greatest treasures. We understand that not everyone can visit the Museum in person, so this allows us to bring the Museum to them in a fresh and engaging new way through the power of social media.”

Featured in the first season is Senior Historian Steve Loughman, who brings his wit, passion, and deep knowledge to all eleven episodes. Loughman said, “I always tell our guests that history is full of surprises — and this series proves it. These artifacts are not just informative; they’re downright fun and it’s a privilege to be able to share them with a new audience. I think people will see history and the New York State Museum in a whole new way.”

The first three episodes can be found on the New York State Museum’s YouTube channel and social media accounts. New episodes will premiere every other Wednesday.

This is just the beginning — future seasons and spin-off series will expand beyond the Museum to showcase the expertise and behind-the-scenes stories of the New York State Library and Archives. From rare books and hidden documents to the dedicated professionals who preserve and interpret them, viewers will gain a unique and engaging glimpse into the heart of New York’s cultural heritage.

Don’t miss out — subscribe to the State Museum’s YouTube channel today and get ready to Look at This!

About the Cultural Education Center     

Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.     

The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.      

The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.      

The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.     

The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.     

Saunders Becomes First Woman to Lead New York State Museum

The New York State Board of Regents and State Education Department Commissioner Dr. Betty A. Rosa today announced the appointment of Jennifer Saunders as Director of the New York State Museum, following a highly competitive national search. Ms. Saunders makes history as the first woman to lead the Museum in its nearly 200-year existence. A nationally respected museum leader, she brings more than two decades of experience guiding cultural institutions through transformational change to best serve a modern audience, with a distinguished record of institutional transformation, enhancing public engagement, promoting inclusive historical narratives, and advancing institutional sustainability.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young Jr. said, “Jennifer Saunders brings not only an impressive record of organizational leadership and public service, but also a deep understanding of how museums can foster civic dialogue, identity, and lifelong learning. We look forward to working with her to advance the Museum's role as a vital contributor to New York’s educational landscape."

Commissioner Dr. Betty A. Rosa said, "Jennifer Saunders is a visionary leader whose commitment to inclusive storytelling, educational innovation, and community engagement aligns powerfully with the mission of the New York State Museum. Her experience leading state agencies and collaborating with Indigenous nations and educators will ensure the Museum continues to serve as a dynamic cultural and educational resource for all New Yorkers."

Since 2011, Saunders has served as Director of the Washington State Historical Society and the Washington State History Museum, overseeing statewide programs and leading major capital, educational, and curatorial initiatives. Under her leadership, the Museum underwent a sweeping reimagining of its core exhibitions, including transformation of the Great Hall of Washington History and the creation of multiple award-winning special exhibitions. Most notably, she spearheaded This is Native Land, a new permanent exhibition developed in partnership with Indigenous curators that centers Native sovereignty and lived experience, opening this fall.

During her tenure, Saunders doubled the organization’s operating budget, expanded statewide services, and launched impactful public programs such as Black History in Washington—a multi-platform initiative resulting in curriculum-aligned resources, a digital app, and a permanent monument to early Black Pacific Northwest settler George Bush on the Washington State Capitol Campus.

Saunders also led a $10 million statewide capital grant program and enhanced infrastructure for local museums and heritage organizations, establishing new funding pathways and awards that elevated excellence in community-based history. Her leadership and expertise have also positioned her as a key voice within the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH), where she has served on the Governing Council and will co-chair the 2026 national conference. In addition, she serves as an active accreditation peer reviewer for the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), underscoring her commitment to advancing best practices and professional standards across the museum field.

Earlier in her career, Saunders served as Executive Director of the Harbor History Museum in Gig Harbor, Washington, where she successfully led an $11.7 million capital campaign and oversaw the construction of a new museum facility. Under her leadership, the museum’s operating budget more than tripled, enabling expanded public access, enhanced programming, and a strengthened community presence. She began her professional journey at the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, where she developed a strong foundation in nonprofit strategy, grantmaking, and philanthropic leadership.

Saunders holds an M.Phil in Politics from the University of Oxford, where she studied as a British Marshall Scholar, and a B.A. in Political Science and Economics from Wellesley College.

Dr. Brent D. Glass, Director Emeritus of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and Search Committee Chair said, "Jennifer Saunders emerged as the clear choice to lead the New York State Museum into its next chapter. She combines strategic vision with hands-on experience in collections, education, and public engagement. Her leadership will help to further position the Museum as a national model of relevance, inclusivity, and innovation."

Sarah Van Anden, Executive Director of the Museum Association of New York said, “Jennifer Saunders brings a powerful blend of experience, vision, and collaboration to this critical role. Her commitment to elevating regional heritage, investing in museum infrastructure, and centering historically excluded voices reflects the values shared by museums across New York State. We are excited to welcome her into this leadership position and look forward to working with her to advance the museum field statewide.”

Incoming Museum Director, Jennifer Saunders said, "It is an extraordinary honor to serve as the next Director of the New York State Museum. I am inspired by its rich collections, dedicated staff, and powerful mission to interpret the state's incredible history. I look forward to deepening connections with New Yorkers from all regions and backgrounds, and working together to ensure the Museum is a welcoming, vibrant place of learning, dialogue, and discovery."

Saunders will begin her tenure as Director in the fall. Dr. Glass, who chaired the national search, will remain engaged with the Museum in an advisory capacity to support a smooth leadership transition.

About the New York State Museum 
Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website and subscribe to our newsletter.  

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Local Youth to Participate in Staff-Led Opportunities, Intensive Learning, and Paid Work Experiences Through Hands-On State Museum Program

The New York State Museum (NYSM) is pleased to celebrate the success of its collaboration with the City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) and Girls Inc. Eureka! in a landmark year for its summer programming. The Museum proudly expanded its initiative to include Girls Inc. Eureka!, which provided young women with immersive STEM experiences. Over the course of the four-week program, students from each organization made a significant impact by engaging with nearly 2,000 Museum patrons through their public programming initiatives. 

Eight local students, ages 14 to 18, participated in the program, gaining invaluable work experience across various fields, including science, history, and the arts. This enriching experience not only fostered career exploration but also offered compensated employment at the New York State Museum, ensuring a rewarding and educational journey for all involved. 

Throughout the summer, students had the unique opportunity to work directly with Museum professionals—scientists, historians, educators, archivists, librarians, and exhibit planners. Guided by these experts, the students utilized the Museum’s collections and research materials from the New York State Library and Archives to craft their own public programming experiences, greatly enhancing the visitor experience. 

The program concluded on August 9th, featuring seven students from the City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment Program and one from the Girls Inc. Eureka! Program. Funded by the City of Albany, SYEP students earned $15.00 per hour for 20 hours a week, adding an element of financial support to their educational experience.

New York State Museum Director of Education Kathryn Weller said, “We are thrilled to support the City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment Program and the Girls Inc. Eureka! Programs. The Summer Youth Employment Program offers a unique opportunity to introduce local students to the many professional opportunities and career paths within the New York State Museum, Library, and Archives. We love the enthusiasm and creativity our SYEP students bring to developing public programs for our visitors. We’re excited to see what the future holds for these talented students and are happy to provide a meaningful workplace experience that we hope inspires them in their future careers.” 

City of Albany Department of Recreation Youth & Workforce Services Commissioner Jonathan Jones said, “The City of Albany's SYEP is incredibly fortunate to have a partnering worksite like the NYS Museum. The exposure to STEM and the Arts through the work at the Museum allows our youth employees to grow their knowledge in a variety of areas while developing their communication and problem-solving skills."  

Summer Youth Employment Student Vanelia Anguilet said, “What I really enjoy here at the museum are the New York minerals; they are so majestic to see. I also participate in the Summer Youth Employment Program to possess and develop more skills like public speaking or helping people in difficulty and more. I always do this, even at school, when I have the chance. I hope to be someone in the future, a good person, to find the career that fits my personality and that will help me be myself so that I can give people the best of me.”  

Vanelia graduated this year from the City School District of Albany. She made the Principal’s List for Innovation Academy and plans to attend Hudson Valley Community College in the Fall.  

Throughout the summer, Museum visitors enjoyed various educational and hands-on programming created by the dedicated students from the City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment and Girls Inc. Eureka! Programs. These engaging, pop-up-style activities sparked creativity and curiosity, offering fresh experiences with every visit. 

The City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment Program(link is external) is a 30+ year-old program that provides summer employment for youth between the ages of 14-18. LIGHT stands for Learning Initiatives and Gaining Headway Together, which symbolizes the program curriculum used in Albany for five weeks each summer. The City of Albany’s LIGHT program introduces youth to the labor market by helping them acquire skills and insight with work experience that can be used to improve school performance and become responsible adults.  

Girls Inc. Eureka! is a free and unique five-year program that introduces girls to STEM, personal development, sports, mentorship, and career exploration. 

About the Cultural Education Center 

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.  

The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.  

The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.  

The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more. 

The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.  

Resources, Online and In-Person Programming, and Public Broadcasting Events Available Throughout February Across the State

The Moral Arc Toward Freedom: Lincoln, King, and the Emancipation Proclamation Special Exhibition Opens February 13

In honor of Black History Month, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) proudly recognizes the profound history, culture, and invaluable contributions of African Americans to the State and nation. Through February, special exhibitions, educational resources, and compelling in-person and online programs will be available, highlighting the significance of Black history in New York State. The monthlong celebration underscores the value of fostering unity and solidarity among diverse cultural identities and highlights the role of education as a unifying force that bridges these varied experiences.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. said, “The celebration of Black History Month is more than just about commemorating the significant contributions of people of African descent to American history and culture. It provides an opportunity to recognize and honor the achievements of a people who have made a tremendous impact on our society and have often been overlooked or undervalued. By learning about their struggles and triumphs, we can better understand our shared history and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future. The Board of Regents and the New York State Education Department remain committed to igniting and inspiring teaching and learning to build a culture and society based on a foundation of access, opportunity, trust, and respect for all New Yorkers.”

State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Black History Month is a tribute to those who came before us in the relentless pursuit of freedom, justice, and equality while advocating for a better future and more inclusive society. As we participate in this month’s events and programs, let us not only celebrate the accomplishments, pride, courage, and resilience that define the Black experience but also strive for a future where the principles of liberty, inclusivity, and equity are universally embraced.”

New York State Museum:

• A comprehensive list of in-person and virtual Black History Month programs happening across the state is available on the Museum’s website.
• The Museum, in partnership with the State Library and State Archives, will feature the centerpiece of this year’s Black History Month observance with a special exhibition, The Moral Arc Toward Freedom: Lincoln, King, and the Emancipation Proclamation. This exhibition opens Tuesday, February 13, goes through Sunday, March 3, and focuses on the historical connections between President Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the Emancipation Proclamation. It includes two historic documents: President Abraham Lincoln’s 1862 Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation and select pages from a speech Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered in New York City in September 1962 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. This draft of the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation is the only surviving version of the document in Lincoln’s handwriting.
• To mark the opening of The Moral Arc Toward Freedom: Lincoln, King, and the Emancipation Proclamation Exhibition, a special program, A Conversation with New York State Poet Patricia Spears Jones, Historian Dr. Jennifer Burns, and New York State Museum Curator Dr. Jennifer Lemak, will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 15, 2024, in the Huxley Theater.
• The spirit and music of the Jazz Era will be celebrated with Jazz in the Galleries featuring live performances from Project H Jazz Quartet and the musical duo Lucia and Levi from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, February 22, in the Museum’s Metropolis Hall. This program is sponsored by The Albany Musicians Association and can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
• For more information on Black History-related programming provided by the New York State Museum on how artifacts, either archaeological or historical, help document the history of Black New Yorkers from the colonial period to the modern age, visit the Museum’s website.

New York State Library:

• During February, on the 7^th floor of the New York State Library, a special exhibit, Understanding Lincoln through Primary Source Documents, will feature cases with selected books and primary source documents from the Library’s collections on President Abraham Lincoln and the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Topics of the exhibit will include Lincoln’s life, the writing of the proclamation, how the State Library came to have the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, and Lincoln’s death.
• A webinar entitled “Lincoln, the Founding, and an America Worth Saving,” with Dr. Lucas Morel of Washington and Lee University, will be held from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 15, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library website.
• A webinar entitled “A Dreamer with A Tiny Spark”: E. J. Josey Transforms the Modern Library Profession, with Dr. Renate, Chancellor of Syracuse University, will be held from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library website.

New York State Archives Partnership Trust/New York State Archives:

• ConsidertheSourceNY.org Teaching with Historical Records(link is external) is available for use during Black History Month and beyond. The continuously expanding collection of document-based activities is developed by the New York State Archives Partnership Trust and teachers around the state. This resource is available to New York State educators with ready-to-use archival resources and learning activities aligned with the New York State Learning Standards. It contains original New York State Archives primary sources and learning activities along with many educational materials.
• During February, on the 11th floor lobby of the Cultural Education Center, a special exhibit, Before Brown: Desegregating New York’s Public Schools, will highlight the early mid-20th century school segregation battles in Hempstead and Hillburn that were taken on by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, a civil rights firm founded by Thurgood Marshall. Education resources are available on ConsidertheSourceNY.org.

New York State Public Broadcasting:

• Learn more about Black culture and history in New York State and beyond with PBS Learning Media. A variety of multimedia support materials are available for the classroom suited for grades PK–12. To learn more about these resources, visit the PBS website.

Offices of P12 and Cultural Education:

• Educators are invited to utilize the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation and the 1962 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Civil War Centennial speech within classroom studies. Use these remarkable primary sources to engage students and uplift their voice through project-based learning. Then, share student work with us via social media using the hashtags #BlackHistoryNY and #MyHistoryMyFuture. A full suite of classroom materials is available on the New York State Library website..

Social Media:

• #BlackHistoryNY: Throughout the month, the State Education Department will feature information on Black History on the Department’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
• #MyHistoryMyFuture: The State Education Department and Education Trust—New York are highlighting students’ work and reflections on the impacts of history and its relevance to their generation. Through the #MyHistoryMyFuture social media campaign, the Department intends to amplify the voices of young people. We encourage students to not only reflect on the past but to be proud of where they come from and take action to make their schools, communities, and the world a better place for future generations.
• #StudentsExhibitingMLK and #NYSMLK: Together with the New York State Office of General Services, the New York State Education Department is highlighting artwork by students from across New York that honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s messages of equality, love, and peace. This campaign may be viewed on the Department’s social media accounts. View the NYS Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Art & Essay Exhibit online or in person on the Empire State Plaza North Concourse in Albany.

Family History Day to be Held on Sunday, March 10

To commemorate Women’s History Month, the New York State Museum (NYSM) will honor the significant roles of women in New York State history. Throughout March, there will be numerous special programs, events, educational resources, and exhibits to honor and celebrate the diverse achievements of women, both past and present. From engaging in-person experiences to helpful online resources, visitors of all ages are invited to learn about the pivotal role women have played in shaping our State heritage.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. said, "Throughout the history of the United States, women and girls have made significant contributions despite facing discrimination and adversity. During Women's History Month, we recognize the brave women who fought for and earned the right to vote, advocated against injustice, broke numerous barriers, and expanded opportunities for all women and girls. Our history is also filled with inspiring examples of women who have paved the way in the recent and distant past, working tirelessly to open doors of opportunity for everyone."

State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Women's History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the insurmountable spirit, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women throughout history, while also serving as an inspiration to the women of today to script their own narrative in the ongoing story of women’s history. This rich selection of important programs and events serve as a platform to foster a society that celebrates the achievements of women, highlights their diverse stories, and paves the way for a future where every woman’s potential is realized and celebrated.” 

In recognition of Women’s History Month, learn more about these significant contributions by exploring the following educational resources and programs for classroom teachers, educators, and the public from the State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education’s collections, exhibits, and research.

New York State Museum:

• A comprehensive list of in-person and virtual Women's History Month programs happening across the state is available on the Museum’s website.
• The Museum will host Women’s History Month Family History Day on Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. This event, for all ages, is an opportunity to celebrate the dynamic role women play in New York’s history. There will be hands-on history activities, curator-led exhibit tours, and a short-film series, Change-Makers Along the Women’s Rights Corridor, Virtual Video Visits, presented by 1st Amendment-1st Vote, Incorporated at 2 p.m. in the Huxley Theater.
• The New York State Museum presents its annual Women of Science program. Learn more about these talented current and past scientists and their research through online presentations.
• As an approved provider of Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE), the New York State Museum is offering Women's History Month Online CTLE Credits for educators this month. Explore the 360 Gallery Tour of the NYSM's exhibition, Votes for Women: Celebrating New York’s Suffrage Centennial, and earn one CTLE credit hour.

New York State Library:

• A webinar entitled, “Fearless Women: Feminist Patriots from Abigail Adams to Beyoncé,” with Dr. Elizabeth Cobbs, historian, novelist, and documentary filmmaker, will be held from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library’s calendar of events.
• A webinar entitled, “Eleanor Roosevelt After 1945,” with Dr. Sandra Opdycke, historian, and author, will be held from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library’s calendar of events.
• A webinar entitled, “Celebrating the 19th Amendment: Women's Suffrage and Anti-Suffrage Documents for Educators,” with Marisa Gitto, New York State Library Senior Reference Librarian, will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 25, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library’s calendar of events.

New York State Archives/ New York State Archives Partnership Trust:

• Tune in on Tuesday, March 12, at 12:30 p.m. for A Woman’s Place: The History of the New York State Women’s Division, A New York Archives Magazine Online Speaker Series Program. Register for the free Zoom program on the Archives Partnership Trust website. The New York State Archives presents, “A Woman’s Place: The History of the New York State Women’s Division.” This display highlights records created by the Women’s Division, a unit within the Executive Chamber that promoted equal status for women and worked with state government agencies on issues affecting women. The material highlighted during the Zoom program will be on display in the 11th floor lobby of the Cultural Education Center throughout March.
• During Women’s History Month, hundreds of ready-to-use primary sources and standards-aligned, teacher-created learning activities can be accessed on ConsidertheSourceNY.org. Historical records spanning from the Dutch colonial period through the preset day offer students an opportunity to practice their document-analysis skills and discover the role of women in New York State history.

New York State Public Broadcasting:

• Toolkits for the classroom. Learn more about Women’s History Month with these free, ready-to-use multimedia resources for the classroom. This folder features videos, lesson plans, media galleries, and more, all focused on Women’s History and culture. All of these resources are educator-created and standards-aligned from PBS stations.

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website. 

The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter. 

The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website. 

The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more. 

The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website. 

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month

The New York State Museum announces its upcoming programming for June, offering educational opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages. Through special programs, including events, lectures, exhibits, and a host of online resources, children, families, educators, and students can experience art, science, and history in a fun and engaging way. As indicated in each listing, the following upcoming free programming is available in person or online.

LGBTQ+ Stories in Our Galleries

Thursday, June 6, 2024 | 12 PM | Museum Lobby | Free
Sunday, June 30, 2024 | 2 PM | Museum Lobby | Free              

Throughout our history, New Yorkers have led the charge for equality, including fighting for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. In 1969, a spark was lit in the already growing gay rights movement at the Stonewall Uprising in Greenwich Village, New York City. As the movement grew nationally over the next few decades, New Yorkers participated in activism across the state, from the struggles of Gay Liberation through the AIDS crisis to the successful fight for marriage equality in 2011. Join Senior Historian Ashley Hopkins-Benton as she highlights a few LGBTQ+ stories in the New York State Museum’s galleries.

Learn more about June 6, 2024, LGBTQ+ Stories in Our Galleries
Learn more about June 30, 2024, LGBTQ+ Stories in Our Galleries

Searching for Timbuctoo, a film by Paul Miller

Saturday, June 15, 2024 |10 AM – 4 PM | Huxley Theater | Free

In 1846, New York State enacted a law requiring African American men to own $250 worth of property to vote. To circumvent this unjust law, radical abolitionist Gerrit Smith gave away 120,000 acres of land in Essex and Franklin Counties to 3,000 free Black men, thereby qualifying them to vote. Searching for Timbuctoo tells the history of this forgotten settlement and New York State on the brink of the Civil War. It follows an archaeology team looking to unearth evidence of the community. (The 55-minute film will run on a loop throughout the day.) Join us for a showing of Searching for Timbuctoo (2021), a film by writer and photographer Paul Miller.

Learn more about Searching for Timbuctoo, a film by Paul Miller

Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s   

Sunday, June 16, 2024 | 2 PM | New York Metropolis Hall | Free
Thursday, June 27, 2024 | 12 PM | New York Metropolis Hall | Free

In choosing their wedding clothes, brides and grooms are influenced by fashion, economics, technology, religion, geography, celebrity, personal taste, and their role in society. This was as true in the past as it is today. Wedding clothing holds memories; pieces—dresses, shoes, suits, and headwear—are often preserved and passed on to later generations. A couple’s choices reveal information about both the individuals who wore them and those who made them. Some garments, like those exhibited here from the 1910s to 1940s, find their way to museum collections. Unveil these stories with Exhibit Curator Connie Frisbee Houde as she highlights pieces from the exhibit Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s.

Learn more about June 16, 2024, Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s
Learn more about June 27, 2024, Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s   

All That Has Disappeared: Latinxs and Urban Redevelopment, 1937-1962 A Lecture with Dr. Pedro A. Regalado, Stanford University

Thursday, June 20, 2024 |7 PM | Huxley Theater | Free

Pedro A. Regalado is an Assistant Professor of History at Stanford University, where he researches and teaches the history of race, immigration, planning, and capitalism in urban America. His first book, Nueva York: Making the Modern City, is a history of New York City’s Latinx community during the twentieth century, from the “pioneers” who arrived after World War I to the panoply of Latinx people who rebuilt the city in the wake of the 1975 fiscal crisis. Across a range of topics, from urban renewal to the rise of Latinx bankers, US military operations in Central America to drug workers who repurposed tenement buildings, Nueva York demonstrates how the democratic ideals of the city hinged, in large part, on the experiences of Latinx New Yorkers. Regalado’s work has been featured in the Journal of Urban History, Boston Review, The Washington Post, Platform, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and Public Books. Before coming to Stanford, Regalado was a junior fellow of the Society of Fellows at Harvard University. He was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in New York City’s Washington Heights.

Learn more about All That Has Disappeared: Latinxs and Urban Redevelopment, 1937-1962 - A Lecture with Dr. Pedro A. Regalado

Cabaret for Kids Presented by The Pride Center of the Capital Region   

June 22, 2024 |12 PM - 2 PM| Huxley Theater | Free

Frieda and Carmie will host a fun-filled show and event with songs, games, prizes, and sing-alongs for kids of all ages.

Learn more about Cabaret for Kids, Presented by The Pride Center of the Capital Region

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.  

New York State Museum Announces July Public Programs

The New York State Museum (NYSM) announces its upcoming programming for July, offering educational opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages. Special programs include events, lectures, exhibits, and a host of online resources. These offerings allow children, families, educators, and students to enjoy art, science, and history in an engaging way. The following upcoming free programs are free and are available in person or online, as indicated in each listing.

Summer at the Museum

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Thursday, July 18, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Tuesday, July 23, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Thursday, July 25, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Tuesday, July 30, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free

Throughout the summer, programs designed to spark creativity and curiosity will take place around the Museum. These family-friendly programs will change regularly, so make sure to come back!

Learn more about July 16, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about July 18, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about July 23, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about July 25, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about July 30, 2024, Summer at the Museum

BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 | 12 PM – 12:30 PM | Huxley Theater | Free

Explore the genetic and physical differences between wolves and coyotes by joining Dr. Jeremy Kirchman as he sheds light on the historical decline of wolves and the colonization of coyotes in New York. Learn how the history of coyote-wolf hybridization has made it difficult for hunters and wildlife management agencies to distinguish our ubiquitous eastern coyote from the occasional wolf that wanders outside of its core breeding range in neighboring Canada. This program includes a 20-minute talk and a brief Q&A.

Learn more about BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman

Celebrate National Carousel Day at the NYSM

Thursday, July 25, 2024 | 11 AM – 1 PM | 4^th Floor Terrace | Free

Celebrate National Carousel Day on July 25th with a day of fun activities at the New York State Museum. Enjoy carousel-themed stories, crafts, and a ride on the Museum's 110-year-old carousel. This free, family-friendly event will have everyone spinning with joy! National Carousel Day commemorates the registration of the first patent for a carousel design by William Schneider on July 25, 1871.

Learn more about Celebrate National Carousel Day at the NYSM!

Tour of the State Education Building

Saturday, July 27 | 2 PM – 2:45 PM | State Education Building

Tour the historic New York State Education Department Building! New York State Museum staff lead the 45-minute Education Building tour, and visitors can explore the building adorned with murals by Albany native Will H. Low. The tour starts outdoors on the front steps of the State Education Building, located at 89 Washington Avenue, Albany. Tours of the Education Building will be offered at 2 p.m. Each tour can accommodate 35 people, and reservations are required.

Learn more about Tour of the State Education Building

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.  

Join Dr. Jeremy Kirchman for Related Educational Lunchtime Lecture Series "BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts” in July and August

The New York State Museum (NYSM)  announced today the debut of its latest exhibition, Canine Contrasts: Unraveling Wolves and Coyotes in New York. The exhibit will feature Taxidermy mounts and skulls of wolves and coyotes, both species from the Museum’s mammalogy collection. It will also tell the story of a wolf that was recently mistaken for a coyote and killed by a licensed hunter near Cherry Valley, New York.

NYSM Curator of Birds and Mammals Dr. Jeremy Kirchman said, “We are excited to display the Cherry Valley wolf specimen and use it to anchor an exhibit about the complex interactions between coyotes and wolves in eastern North America. The colonization of New York by coyotes that have hybridized with wolves and the occasional dispersal of individual wolves back into our area is a fascinating story that we are happy to share with the public. Specimen collections like ours are the basis of ongoing DNA research on wild canids here at NYSM and other museums and universities.”

The Canine Contrasts exhibit offers a unique opportunity to explore the differences between wolves and coyotes, including their physical and genetic characteristics and habitats. It also shows how the history of coyote-wolf hybridization has made it difficult for both hunters and wildlife management agencies to distinguish our ubiquitous eastern coyote from the occasional wolf that wanders outside of its core breeding range in neighboring Canada.

The New York State Museum will host two events related to the exhibit.

On Wednesday, July 17, starting at noon in the Huxley Theater, NYSM Curator of Birds and Mammals, Dr. Jeremy Kirchman, will host the "BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman,"which is a short talk held during lunchtime in which he will discuss the natural history of wolves and coyotes. Following the talk, Dr. Kirchman will lead visitors to the new exhibit to continue the discussion. This program, "BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman," will be held again on Wednesday, August 14^th at 12 PM in the Huxley Theater.

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.

The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.

The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.

The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.

The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.

The New York State Museum announces its upcoming programming for August, offering educational opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages. Through special programs, including events, lectures, exhibits, and a host of online resources, children, families, educators, and students can experience art, science, and history in a fun and engaging way. The following upcoming free programs are available in person or online, as indicated in each listing.

Summer at the Museum

Thursday, August 1, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Thursday, August 8, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free

Throughout the summer, programs designed to spark creativity and curiosity will take place around the Museum. These family-friendly programs will change regularly, so make sure to come back!

Learn more about August 1, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about August 6, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about August 8, 2024, Summer at the Museum

Tours of the State Education Building

Saturday, August 10 | 2 PM – 2:45 PM | State Education Building
Saturday, August 17 | 2 PM – 2:45 PM | State Education Building

Tour the historic New York State Education Department Building! New York State Museum staff lead the 45-minute Education Building tour, and visitors can explore the building adorned with murals by Albany native Will H. Low. The tour starts outdoors on the front steps of the State Education Building, located at 89 Washington Avenue, Albany. Tours of the Education Building will be offered at 2 p.m. Each tour can accommodate 35 people, and reservations are required.

Learn more about the August 10 State Education Building Tour(link is external)
Learn more about the August 17 State Education Building Tour(link is external)

Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s

Sunday, August 11 | 2 PM | New York Metropolis Hall | Free
Thursday, August 15 | 12 PM | New York Metropolis Hall | Free

In choosing their wedding clothes, brides and grooms are influenced by fashion, economics, technology, religion, geography, celebrity, personal taste, and their role in society. This was as much the case in the past as it is today. Wedding clothing holds memories, and pieces—dresses, shoes, suits, and head wear—are often preserved and passed to subsequent generations. A couple’s choices reveal information about both the individuals who wore them and those who made them. Some garments, like those exhibited here from the 1910s to 1940s, find their way to museum collections. Unveil these stories with clothing expert, Connie Frisbee Houde, as she highlights pieces from the exhibit, Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s.

Learn more about the August 11 Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s
Learn more about the August 15 Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s

BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman

Wednesday, August 14 | 12 PM – 12:30 PM | Huxley Theater | Free

Explore the genetic and physical differences between wolves and coyotes by joining Dr. Jeremy Kirchman as he sheds light on the historical decline of wolves and the colonization of coyotes in New York. Learn how the history of coyote-wolf hybridization has made it difficult for hunters and wildlife management agencies to distinguish our ubiquitous eastern coyote from the occasional wolf that wanders outside of its core breeding range in neighboring Canada. This program includes a 20-minute talk and a brief Q&A.

Learn more about BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman

The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter. 

The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website. 

The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more. 

The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website. 

New Exhibit Highlights the Connection between Hiroshima and 9/11 Historical Events Through the Story of a Young Japanese Girl   

Origami Crane on Display September 10 through October 6, 2024

The New York State Museum (NYSM) announced today the opening of a new exhibit, Sadako’s Crane, in The World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response Gallery on Tuesday, September 10th. On display until October 6, 2024, the new exhibit will showcase an important artifact that connects the tragedies of the 1945 Hiroshima, Japan atomic bombing and the September 11, 2001, attacks through the story of a young Japanese girl named Sadako Sasaki. In 1955, she created the tiny origami crane using the red wrapper of a methotrexate medicine container, a treatment for her illness. In 2010, Sadako’s brother, Mashiro Sasaki, donated the crane, one of only seven remaining worldwide, to the 9/11 Tribute Museum in New York City. This significant artifact was transferred to the State Museum from the 9/11 Tribute Museum in 2022.

“This exhibit commemorates a young girl’s wish for peace and understanding and reminds us of our shared connections across time, geographical boundaries, and cultural differences. This important artifact serves as a bridge between two profound tragedies—Hiroshima and September 11th—and offers a universal message of hope and resilience. We are honored to share Sadako’s legacy with our visitors through this meaningful exhibit,” said NYSM Chief Curator of History Dr. Jennifer Lemak.

Sadako Sasaki, born on January 7, 1943, in Hiroshima, Japan, was just two years old when the United States dropped the first atomic bomb on her city on August 6, 1945. Although she and her mother survived the bombing, Sadako developed leukemia by 1955 due to radiation exposure. She was hospitalized at a Red Cross hospital in Hiroshima on February 21, 1955.

In August, Sadako learned of a Japanese legend that the folder would be granted one wish if a person folded 1,000 origami cranes. Inspired by this, she began folding the intricate paper birds, completing more than 1,300 before her death at the age of 12 on October 25, 1955.

The delicate crane was previously displayed at the 9/11 Tribute Museum until its closure in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was among the many items transferred to the New York State Museum collections for safekeeping after the Tribute’s closure, where it now stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit. It will be on display at the State Museum each September annually.

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website. 

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An exhibition on President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the "First New Deal" in New York will open at the New York State Museum on Roosevelt's birthday, January 30. On display through May 4, "New York and the First New Deal" will feature bronze bust sculptures of Roosevelt and his wife, Eleanor Roosevelt, as well as other images and artifacts from Roosevelt's economic revitalization efforts in New York.

"Franklin Roosevelt's legacy in the White House and New York's State Capitol is well-remembered today," said State Museum Director Mark Schaming. "This exhibition tells the story of how Roosevelt helped alleviate the significant economic effects of the Great Depression on New Yorkers in his role as governor, which later helped him secure his seat in the White House."

The Board of Regents and the State Museum are dedicated to educating New Yorkers and visitors to the State Museum about the State's history. In addition to Franklin Roosevelt, five other United States Presidents were from New York State, including Martin Van Buren, Millard Fillmore, Chester Arthur, Grover Cleveland and Theodore Roosevelt.

The exhibition features two bronze busts of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt by sculptor Carolyn Palmer of Montgomery, New York. Palmer originally created a set of Roosevelt busts for the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, NY. She created another set which is currently on loan to the State Museum.

On October 29, 1929—less than a year after Franklin Roosevelt was elected governor of New York —the stock market crashed and the United States plunged into the Great Depression. Almost overnight New Yorkers found themselves amidst severe economic crisis and mass unemployment. As governor, Roosevelt implemented a series of measures designed to help alleviate the crisis for average citizens.

Funds were poured into projects around the state in an effort to put New Yorkers back to work. New York State would become a proving ground of sorts for Roosevelt's extraordinary response to the Great Depression, which made him an attractive presidential candidate. He won the 1932 presidential election and served as President from 1933 through 1945.

The exhibition features artifacts from the State Museum, State Library, and State Archives. A photo of the bronze busts of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt is available at: http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/PRkit/2014/FDR/.

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department's Office of Cultural Education. Located on Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is free. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or visiting the Museum website.

The New York State Museum today announced the acquisition of twenty-one new works of art by eighteen artists from Native American Nations in New York State. From baskets and beadwork to modern art, the newest additions celebrate the traditional roots of Native American artistry through modern expression. An exhibition featuring the artwork is scheduled for fall 2014.

"The Board of Regents and the State Museum are pleased to add twenty-one works of art by talented Native American artists from across the State to our collection," said State Museum Director Mark Schaming. "We have collected Native American cultural items since the 1840s. The collection was developed to work with Native American communities in the acquisition of artwork that best represents their cultures and history."

The artists and their work include:

David Fadden, Mohawk
At the Social, acrylic on canvas painting

Ronni-Leigh Goeman, Onondaga, and Stonehorse Goeman, Tonawanda Seneca
Blue Heron with Baby basket, made with black ash, sweet grass and moose hair with moose antler and buffalo horn carvings

Tony Gonyea, Onondaga
Two-Row Wampum Belt, made with ceramic beads, deerskin, and sinew

Brenda Hill, Tuscarora
Pot with Wampum Bead Rim, earthenware with wampum bead inlay
Bear Comb lid and dish, earthenware

Tom Huff, Seneca-Cayuga
Ancestors/Tree of Life, Brazilian soapstone with walnut base

Mary Jacobs, Seneca
New Age Hat, velvet with raised beadwork and satin ribbon

David Martine, Shinnecock
Mandush, Shinnecock Sachem of the 17th century, acrylic on canvas painting

Towanna Miller, Mohawk
Residential School, acrylic on canvas painting

Penny Minner, Seneca
Corn Wash, Market, and Tote/Purse baskets made of black ash

Roger Perkins, Mohawk
Bear Clan, digital, archival ink on canvas 
I Pop Arted Tonto, digital, archival ink on canvas

Bryan Printup, Tuscarora
Ring Bearer Cushion, velvet with raised beadwork

Sheila Ransom, Mohawk
Bird’s Beak, black ash and sweet grass fancy basket

Natasha Smoke Santiago, Mohawk
Emerging Corn (Belly series), densite, acrylic & raffia sculpture

Alyssa Schmidt, Seneca
Beaded hair ornament and earrings

Antoinette Scott, Seneca
Three Sisters: Corn, Beans, and Squash, cornhusk dolls with traditional beaded clothing

Samuel Thomas, Cayuga
Bandolier Bag, wool and cotton with glass seed beads, 14 karat gold beads, and satin ribbon

Carson Waterman, Seneca
Man with Gustowets, acrylic on canvas painting

Photos of some of the artwork from the collection are available at: http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/PRkit/2014/NativeAmerican/.   

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located on Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.  It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is free. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or visiting the Museum website.

Spring will arrive early at the New York State Museum where visitors will find more than 100 floral displays throughout the Museum February 21-23 for the 23rd Annual "New York in Bloom" fundraiser benefiting the Museum’s educational programs for children. Admission is $5 (cash only); children ages 12 and under will receive free admission when accompanied by an adult.

Garden club members, professional designers, interior designers and floral enthusiasts from the Capital District and beyond will create unique floral arrangements that complement and interpret the Museum’s exhibitions. David Michael Schmidt of Renaissance Floral Design will transform the front window area of the Museum lobby with a floral display incorporating rustic furniture by Clarence O. Nichols from the Museum’s collections.

Visitors can view several demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday about gardening, design and creating floral arrangements. There will also be children’s arts and crafts activities throughout the weekend. A flower market will be open in the lobby area on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., while supplies last. Mazzone Hospitality and Losee’s Homestyle Deli will offer a selection of light luncheon fare on the 4th floor of the Museum. 

Supporters of "New York in Bloom" are Renaissance Floral Design, Ambiance Florals and Events, Spotlight Newspapers, Quality Retail Systems, and Price Chopper.

For more information, please visit the Museum’s website at: http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/programs/nybloom/.

The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is free. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or visiting the Museum website.

The fourth annual Capital Region Canstruction, a design competition benefiting The Food Pantries for the Capital District, will be held at the New York State Museum April 9 through April 24, 2014. Canstruction participants design and build giant-sized unique structures made entirely out of canned goods. This year’s participants have been challenged to collect 50,000 cans and $50,000 to support local food pantries.

Nine teams comprised of local architecture, engineering and construction firms, as well as design students, will transform tens of thousands of cans of food into larger than life pop art masterpieces inspired by this year’s theme, "Storytown", at the 4th floor of the State Museum. Participants include CSArch, Creighton Manning, EYP, MJ Engineering, Mosaic, Price Chopper, RPI, SMRT, and Spring Line Design.

Sculpture designs include James and the Giant Peach, Toy Story, Green Eggs and Ham, Winnie the Pooh, The Little Engine That Could, Horton Hears a Who, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Alice in Wonderland, The Rainbow Fish, The Wizard of Oz and Humpty Dumpty. All cans used in the displays were purchased from Price Chopper, the major event sponsor, and will be donated to The Food Pantries for the Capital District at the end of Canstruction.

Visitors are encouraged to bring canned goods to the State Museum and participate in the Canstruction competition. Visitors can use their canned goods as ballots to help determine the winner of the Community Choice award. Other awards, including "Best Use of Labels" and "Structural Ingenuity", will be chosen by a panel of local judges.

"We are pleased to once again host Canstruction at the State Museum," said Mark Schaming, State Museum Director. "Canstruction showcases the talent and creativity of the designers, but most importantly, it provides support for vital community services. We invite the Capital Region to visit the State Museum during Canstruction, experience these amazing creations and help our local community."

"Our nine talented teams have spent months planning their entries and are allowed one adrenaline filled night to meticulously stack and color-coordinate their cans into ingenious feats of design. This event showcases the deep talent of local design firms and students, and ultimately donating tens of thousands of cans of food to feed the hungry in our region," said Sara Stein, AIA, LEED AP, President of Capital Region Canstruction and Architect at EYP Architecture and Engineering.

Natasha Pernicka, Executive Director of The Food Pantries for the Capital District said, "The Food Pantries is proud to share its fourth year with Canstruction, as we continue working together to stock the shelves of the Capital Region's Food Pantries. This magnificent event heightens the awareness of the need in our community and has played an important role in helping to feed the hungry in the Capital District. The impact is more powerful than ever as we respond to the sustained high demand for food in our region."

Capital Region Canstruction is supported by The American Institute of Architects' Eastern New York Chapter. This year's Canstruction is presented by Price Chopper with EYP Architecture & Engineering, Ryan-Biggs Associates and media sponsor the Times Union. Gold sponsors include Key Bank, Camelot, A.W. Hastings & Co., Harbrook, CMC-Kuhnke, CSArch, CHA, and Mazzone Hospitality. Silver sponsors include Gilbane, Centria, Eastern Contractors Association and Greco Construction.

Last year's event resulted in a donation of approximately 51,000 cans of food to The Food Pantries for the Capital District. Since its inception in 2011, the Capital Region event has donated approximately 140,000 cans of food and raised more than $34,000 to help fight hunger.

Canstruction events are held annually in over 150 cities around the world including North America, Australia, South America, Europe and Asia. Capital Region Canstruction is currently ranked #10 in the world for most food raised and meals donated.

The New York State Museum is a program of the State Education Department's Office of Cultural Education. Located on Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. except on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Further information can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or visiting the Museum website.