Description: The 19th century was a transformative time for the natural sciences. New discoveries didn't just happen in an armchair. Scientists adventured into unfamiliar territory by land and sea on expeditions, and their new findings fed new theories. Groups like the Columbian Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Sciences formalized America's place
Description: We’re taking a look at the various watercolors the Smithsonian Institution has collected both past and present, highlighting the diversity in artists, technique, unique painting effect, and versatility to create anything from insects to cityscapes.