1972 Renwick Gallery Reopening Poster by Lowell Nesbitt Smithsonian Washington DC

Date: 1972
Artist: Nesbitt, Lowell
Size (in): 42.5” x 30”
Size (cm): 108 x 76.2
Condition: B+
Linen backed: No

This vintage original poster, by acclaimed artist Lowell Nesbitt, was issued following the renovation and reopening of the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian Museum of American Art in Washington D.C. in 1972. Nesbitt renders an image of the Renwick Gallery’s Grand Staircase with a photographic image of the original Corcoran Gallery of Art building appearing in the lower lefthand corner. Construction of the Corcoran Gallery began in 1860 but was interrupted by the Civil War and not completed until 1874. The building was almost demolished to make way for other federal offices but was saved in 1963 by the personal intervention of First Lady Jaqueline Kennedy.

In 1965 President Lyndon B. Johnson transferred ownership of the building to the Smithsonian Institute which undertook a largescale renovation with the Renwick Gallery building reopening to the public in 1972. The printed signature “L. Nesbitt” appears in the lower lefthand corner of the image along with the date 1971.  Text across the bottom of the poster reads: 

RENWICK GALLERY Of The National Collection Of Fine Arts, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. 20560 - The national showcase for the creative achievements of designers and craftsmen of the United States

This vintage original poster is folded once laterally across the center as issued.  The poster has no tape or pinholes and shows only moderate handling wear. Overall condition is very good.