Daily Newsletter
The White House accuses the public institution of “extreme activism”; plus, an interview with queer icon Carmelita Tropicana.
The Trump administration has intensified its criticism of the Smithsonian Institution, releasing a 162-page report on July 4 that accuses the organization of engaging in “extreme political activism” and “anti-White activism.” This document represents a significant escalation in President Trump’s campaign against what he perceives as biased narratives in the recounting of U.S. history. The administration targets specific museum exhibits, including a protest prop in the shape of a butterfly that symbolizes resilience among undocumented immigrants.
This moment offers an opportunity to revisit works that question and challenge authority from the margins. Be sure to read Natalie Haddad’s interview with Carmelita Tropicana (also known as Alina Troyano), a humorous and bold lesbian performance artist and leading figure in New York’s downtown theater scene, who defies the “Latin spitfire” stereotype.
—Valentina Di Liscia, senior editor
Trump Accuses Smithsonian of “Anti-White Activism” in Draconian New Report
More than a year after President Trump ordered his administration to investigate so-called “race-centered ideology” at the Smithsonian Institution, the White House has published a new report accusing museum leadership of promoting “extreme political activism.”
Published on July 4, “Saving America’s Story” was authored by the Trump-appointed Domestic Policy Council. Throughout the 162-page document, the council scrutinizes how the institution’s National Museum of American History (NMAH) portrays topics such as race, immigration, and gender. | Isa Farfan
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Other News
- A jewel heist occurred early on July 5 at a museum in France. The thieves broke several display cases on the gallery floors and stole 27 pieces of fine jewelry valued at approximately €4 million (~$4.5 million).
San Francisco Art Book Fair Celebrates 10 Years
Presented by Minnesota Street Project Foundation, SFABF returns this July, welcoming 160 independent publishers from around the world.
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Queer Elders
Bard MFA Presents 2026 Thesis Exhibition in Barrytown, NY
“Reassembly: The Class of 2027 Thesis Performances and Exhibition” will be held in the Bard College Massena Exhibition Center from July 11-19, 2026.
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From Our Critics
Books
Love this final paragraph! Yep, sadly I believe Damien Davis is spot on with this assessment of the art market. That said, it does appear that many savvy artists are taking charge with new tools to guide their own careers and sales. I admire their dexterity in the world of today. For my practice I find that it is much to much to manage with tools that bring little satisfaction. Just copied this last paragraph to hang in my studio for comfort. Thank you.
Nancy Arthur-McGehee on “Everything Is Not Fine in the Art World”
From the Archive
