Renwick Gallery’s Founding Director Leaves Behind a Legacy of Craft

The Smithsonian American Art Museum honors Lloyd Herman, who passed away on January 5. As founding director of SAAM's Renwick Gallery, Herman was a champion for artists and an icon in the field of American studio craft.

"The vision for the Renwick Gallery, which opened 50 years ago, came from the mind and heart of Lloyd Herman.” – Stephanie Stebich, Margaret and Terry Stent Director

“He further contributed his hard work and considerable imagination for 16 years as its founding director to create what is arguably the leading museum dedicated to American craft and one beloved by generations,” says Stebich. His legacy lives on in the hundreds of scholars, artists, collectors, and museum visitors who are inspired every day by the extraordinary creativity he championed.