Artist Talk: Mitch Epstein

Hear celebrated photographer Mitch Epstein talk about his creative practice during a special presentation at the National Gallery of Art on Friday, June 12, 2026. Epstein’s photographs are currently on view in three gallery exhibitions: *Dear America: Artists Explore the American Experience*, *Beneath the Surface: Mining and American Photography*, and *American Icon: The US Flag in Art*. During this talk, he will discuss his creative practice and his engagement with the exhibition themes. The event is part of the Elson Lecture Series, which features distinguished contemporary artists represented in the gallery’s permanent collection. After a landmark gift this spring, the National Gallery now holds the largest institutional collection of Epstein’s work. This in-person talk is free and open to adults.

When: Friday, June 12, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: East Building, East Building Large Auditorium, National Gallery of Art, 6th and Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565
Tickets: Free, but registration is required. Register online via the National Gallery website.
Speaker: Mitch Epstein, born 1952 in Holyoke, MA. A graduate of Cooper Union, he pioneered 1970s fine‑art color photography. His mixed‑media work includes films, moving‑image installations with sound, and performance. Epstein has been inducted into the National Academy of Design (2020), received the Prix Pictet (2011), Berlin Prize (2008), and a Guggenheim Fellowship (2002). His 17 books include *Recreation* (2022, 2005), *Property Rights* (2021), *New York Arbor* (2013), *American Power* (2009), and *Family Business* (2004). His most recent exhibition, *American Nature*, combines photographic series and video‑sound installations. Epstein lives in New York City and Massachusetts.
Ages: Adults
Language: English
Format: In‑person presentation with Q&A (implied by the “Talk & Conversation” format)
Note: The Elson Lecture Series is endowed by The Honorable and Mrs. Edward E. Elson since 1992. Epstein’s photographs are featured in *Dear America*, *Beneath the Surface*, and *American Icon*. Additional exhibitions on the same date (e.g., “Finding Awe: Giovanni Paolo Panini’s Rome” from 2:15–4:00 p.m.) are separate events.