Claire / McCardell

On view now!

Claire McCardell redefined women’s fashion in America during the 1930s –1950s and she continues to influence American sportswear today. By designing for modern American women like herself, McCardell became synonymous with the American fashion rebellion. Beneath her dynamic, confident, and strong-willed business persona, Claire was a shy introvert in conflict with this perceived identity. Through family letters, personal interviews, and archival documents, juxtaposed with examples of McCardell’s designs spanning her career, this exhibition gives a more intimate look at the woman behind the iconic label. This exhibition is curated by Tory Burch Claire McCardell Fashion Fellow Robyn Levy. Support for this Fellowship is generously provided by the Tory Burch Foundation.

The Unfinished Revolution

Maryland in the Wars for Independence

The Unfinished Revolution explores the turmoil of the United States’ emergence on the world stage between 1775 and 1815. The exhibition highlights two points that became certain—the country’s revolution remained unfinished, and Marylanders of many races and creeds were at the forefront of each conflict. This exhibition is on long-term view.

Liberté/Liberty

Stitched in Favor

200 years of The Historic St. James Episcopal Church

Reflecting on the enduring legacy of The Historic Saint James Episcopal Church; the first African Protestant Episcopal church. This exhibition honors the church’s unwavering commitment to faith, education, and social justice, inspiring future generations to continue to fight for equality and empowerment. By chronicling the church’s journey from its founding in 1824 to its enduring legacy today, the exhibition explores the rich history of this cornerstone of African American heritage in Baltimore through historic and contemporary textiles, art, and artifacts.

Collecting Maryland

Art | Artifacts | Community

The 350,000 objects, artworks, and artifacts within the museum collections of MCHC tell the stories of our state’s interconnected communities. Collecting Maryland: Art, Artifacts, Community returns important works of fine and decorative arts to public view. Vignettes highlighting major collecting themes are organized to provide an introspective look at our institution and dive into the depth and breadth of our collections assembled over our 180-year history.  Through the lens of “We Are. . .” our core values of Community, Authenticity, Dialogue, and Discovery are echoed in objects, ideas, and stories throughout the galleries. Collecting Maryland is designed as a flexible space for our curatorial team to experiment with new ideas and rotate frequently. We invite our members and larger community to come and learn something new with each visit.