New Report by Jenrette Foundation Highlights American Decorative Arts' Current Challenges and Future Directions

Jenrette Foundation Releases Landmark Report

On June 17, 2025, the Richard Hampton Jenrette Foundation unveiled an important document titled The State of American Decorative Arts. This comprehensive report provides an insightful examination of both the prevailing difficulties and promising prospects facing the realm of decorative arts in the United States. Utilizing original survey data, interviews with specialists, and findings from a pivotal gathering convened in January 2025, the report paints a picture of a dynamic sector that is currently experiencing significant transformations.

Key Findings at a Glance

One of the major insights derived from this report is that 93% of institutions engaged in decorative arts are actively acquiring new works. However, it is concerning to note that only 33% of these institutions regularly deaccession items from their collections, leading to complications involving long-term storage and curatorial responsibilities. Additionally, despite the fact that nearly 80% of institutions provide internships and fellowship opportunities, the availability of entry-level, full-time employment opportunities remains minimal—a disconnect that points to systemic issues within the field.

Moreover, rising operational costs compounded by potential cuts to federal funding are creating substantial financial strain on institutions of all sizes. The report further indicates a burgeoning focus among scholars on underrepresented artists, global influences, and multisensory experiences, demonstrating a shift in how decorative arts are conceptualized and understood. However, it also highlights that technology and digital access are still not being used to their full potential, despite their promise for enhancing public engagement and educational outreach.

Calls to Action

The report culminates in four distinct calls to action aimed at revitalizing the field:

1. Fund Exhibitions and Publications: There is a dire need to reflect the diverse voices and histories within the decorative arts. Increasing funding for exhibitions and publications will elevate these narratives.
2. Expand Public Access: Institutions should invest in digitalization efforts, making collections more accessible to the public through online platforms.
3. Invest in Professional Development: A stronger pipeline for curators and scholars is essential. Support for education and training initiatives is needed to cultivate future leaders in this domain.
4. Embrace Interdisciplinary Research: Linking decorative arts to broader cultural and historical narratives can enhance appreciation and understanding, fostering a more holistic view of their significance.

A Moment of Reckoning

Benjamin Prosky, President of the Jenrette Foundation, describes this period as one ripe for transformation. He asserts that the decorative arts landscape is transcending traditional boundaries and prompting critical discussions on inclusion, stewardship, and public relevance. Prosky emphasizes that this report serves not merely as a record of the current state of affairs but as a clarion call for action, urging stakeholders—including grantmakers, private collectors, and philanthropists—to ramp up their support for this vital area of scholarship.

The full report can be accessed on their website and aims to inspire dialogue and initiatives that sustain and grow the future of American decorative arts. The Jenrette Foundation remains resolute in its mission to champion historical preservation, decorative arts, and cultural education, fostering a vibrant community of practice that can navigate the complexities of contemporary society while honoring the rich legacies of the past.

Conclusion

As we stand at a crossroads in the field of decorative arts, the insights provided in this report by the Jenrette Foundation are more crucial than ever. They not only illuminate the current challenges but also point us toward a horizon filled with potential for innovation and inclusivity. The time to act is now, for the future of American decorative arts depends on our collective response to these pivotal findings.