The American Artists’ Hand Archive is a remarkable ongoing effort which has received acclaim as it inspires and challenges its viewers at exhibition. We intend to present the archive in whole or in part to a wide range of audiences throughout the US. We encourage any organization interested in presenting the AAHA to contact us to discuss schedule and logistics of exhibiting the collection.
Upcoming:
Watch this space for future exhibit information
Current:
Hands on Hands
Returning to the GSMT Library, this one night presentation covers the archive's mission, the casting process and work inspired by the collection. Both online and in-person participants will have the opportunity to view images and videos showing the process, the current roster of artists, and remarkable detail photographs. Those in attendance will also be able to explore hands-on, each bronzes meticulously detailed workmanship.
September 29, 2026 The General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen 20 West 44th St. New York, NY 10036
Past:
Portraits of Process
“Portraits of Process” was presented at the David Rockefeller Creative Arts Center in Tarrytown, New York, featuring 34 bronze life castings from the Archive accompanied by 16 large-format photographs that explore the abstract nature of the bronzes.
September 21, 2023 - July 21, 2024
Hand Made: Guitars according to G.E. Smith & The American Artists’ Hand Archive
“Hand Made: Guitars according to G.E. Smith & The American Artists’ Hand Archive” brought together two cohesive yet unusual collections: a group of 16 rare and classic guitars selected by G.E. Smith, and The American Artists' Hand Archive's collection of 31 life-cast bronze hands of visual artists.
The show explored the idea of skill as something that is both acquired through study and learned through the continuous physical practice of a craft.
October 6 - December 22, 2022 The Church, 48 Madison St. Sag Harbor, NY 11963
Introduction to the American Artists’ Hand Archive
The Introduction to The American Artists' Hand Archive was presented for the first time in its entirety in the glorious setting of the General Society’s 230-year-old library.
A lecture and slide presentation on the history of the Archive and many of the artist participants was followed by a memorable event: wearing curatorial gloves, guests had the unique experience of holding and examining the bronze life castings.
July 6, 2019 The General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen 20 West 44th St. New York, NY 10036
Ambacht In Beeld / Craft in Focus
Founded in 2013 by filmmaker Wendy van Wilgenburg, the Ambacht In Beeld annual festival highlights craftsmanship in an interactive and educational way. Attended by thousands from across Europe, the multi-day events include artisan’s lectures, films, and workshops.
A selection of bronzes from the Archive was presented for display and the AAHA gave a master class in life molding and casting.
September 21-21, 2017 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
