11 Must-See Art Shows That Reframe U.S. History as the Nation Turns 250

Museums across the United States are launching a series of major exhibitions to mark the nation's 250th anniversary. These shows use art and material culture to explore the construction of American identity, featuring themes like migration, modernity, and reinterpretations of national icons.

These exhibitions collectively aim to reframe U.S. history by highlighting diverse, often underrepresented narratives. They move beyond traditional celebratory approaches to critically examine the nation's complex and unfinished stories, using visual culture as a primary tool for historical reflection during a significant national milestone.