Racine Art Museum Joins National Handwork 2026 Craft Celebration
by Racine County Eye Staff
November 14th, 2025
RACINE — The Racine Art Museum (RAM) will take part in Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026, a nationwide initiative honoring handmade artistry as part of the United States Semiquincentennial. The program, led by Craft in America, highlights the cultural and historical significance of craft traditions across the country.
RAM will contribute to the celebration with a new exhibition, “Cut it Out: Papercutting Traditions and Beyond,” opening Feb. 18, 2026, at the museum’s downtown Racine location.
Exploring Global Papercutting Traditions
The exhibition connects cultural heritage and contemporary creativity through various forms of papercutting, including Polish wycinanki, Chinese paper art, and Mexican papel picado. The display will feature both historical pieces and modern interpretations that expand traditional techniques.
Artist Myra Su will present shadow puppet performances using intricate paper silhouettes during the exhibition’s run, demonstrating how traditional handwork continues to evolve in modern art.
A National Celebration of Craft
Handwork 2026 is organized by Craft in America, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit known for its Emmy-nominated PBS documentary series that explores the stories of American craft makers. Since its launch in 2007, the series has produced 35 episodes, chronicling artists and traditions that connect past and present.
The Racine Art Museum’s participation aligns with its mission to highlight contemporary craft and elevate handmade art as a vital part of American culture. RAM joins other museums and artists across the nation in celebrating the resilience and creativity embedded in the country’s craft traditions.
Museum Details and Visiting Information
The Racine Art Museum houses the largest contemporary craft collection in North America and is recognized for its innovative exhibitions and education programs.
- Location: 441 Main St., Racine
- Hours: Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Admission: $10 for adults; $8 for students, seniors, and veterans; free for children under 12, active military, and RAM members
Visitors can learn more about Handwork 2026 and other participating institutions at handwork2026.org. For details on current and upcoming exhibitions, visit ramart.org.