Upcoming Exhibition: “Made in America” by Christopher Payne at Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

American flags in production on a rotary screen printer, 2018. Photographed by Christopher Payne (American, born 1968). Annin Flagmakers (South Boston, Virginia). Courtesy of Berubi Gallery. © Christopher Payne/Esto

This fall, the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum will showcase a captivating new exhibition, Made in America: The Industrial Photography of Christopher Payne. Running from November 21, 2025, through spring 2026, the exhibit features over seventy of Chris’s photographs over a decade-long journey through America’s factories. His persistent pursuit of documenting the twilight of American craft and an ascent of new technology, Chris’s work offers viewers an unparalleled look into the production processes that shape everything from Steinway pianos instruments to fusion research.

Payne’s photographs highlight the skilled hands behind the creation of iconic American products—like footballs, flags, and even the Giant Magellan Telescope. New works, not previously shown, include images from a Herman Miller furniture factory in Michigan, a New Balance sneaker production line in Massachusetts, and high-speed rail train assembly in New York. His images underscore the artistry and community involved in manufacturing, capturing the quiet elegance in what might otherwise be overlooked.

Made in America and its companion monograph offer a fascinating visual journey through both traditional and cutting-edge American industries. As the exhibition’s curator Susan Brown explains, Payne’s work “reveals both the essence of the work being performed and the grace of a skilled maker who brings craft, passion, and technological savvy to the process.”

Christopher Payne’s stunning photographs are also available for purchase at Benrubi Gallery, a leading fine art photography gallery. We are glad to have worked with Chris over the past decade on his architectural-based shoots and industrial projects.

Posters and post cards of select images will be available at the SHOP Cooper Hewitt in October.

This exhibition is a part of the Smithsonian’s celebration of America’s industrial past and future, telling a powerful story of human ingenuity, teamwork, and technological progress.

Made in America will be on display at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum from November 21, 2025, through Spring 2026. Don’t miss the chance to see Chris’s prints on American manufacturing in person.