Exhibitions

Filson Exhibitions

The Filson’s exhibits share the stories of the Ohio River Valley using photographs, Stock Yards Bank and Trust Logo manuscripts, books, and artifacts from the Filson’s extensive collections spanning more than 230 years. Our exhibit spaces are open Monday through Friday, 9 AM-4:30 PM and are free to the public.

Filson exhibits are generously sponsored by Stock Yards Bank and Trust.

The Filson’s exhibits share the stories of the Ohio River Valley using photographs, manuscripts, books, and artifacts from the Filson’s extensive collections spanning more than 230 years. Digital exhibits can be accessed on our Omeka website or by clicking the title’s below. Our exhibit spaces are open Monday through Friday 9 AM-4:30 PM and are free to the public.

Filson exhibits are generously sponsored by Stock Yards Bank and Trust.

Stock Yards Bank and Trust Logo

Current Exhibits

The Filson’s clothing and textile collection contains over 5,000 objects from as early as the 1810s worn for every occasion. Yet the public has only been able to view a tiny fraction of the Filson’s fashion archive over the years—just an occasional peek in the closet. Bustles to Blue Jeans shows off some of our most unusual, storied, and beautiful garments—from ball gowns to bathing costumes, bustles to blue jeans.

Elegant, vintage gown with intricate lace detailing and a long train, set against a neutral background. Text reads "Bustles to Blue Jeans."

Bustles to Blue Jeans: Highlights from the Filson’s Fashion Archive

On View in the Bingham Gallery till August 7th, 2026

For over 200 years, African American people have shaped the city’s social, political, and cultural fabric. Beginning with free Blacks migrating from rural Kentucky in search of work, safety, and community, their population surged between 1870 and 1900. Today, they make up about 24% of the city’s population. This…Is Black Louisville celebrates the resilience, creativity, and enduring impact of the Black experience in forming the River City’s identity.

Five smiling children stand on a city street holding a dog. Background features vintage cars and storefronts, creating a nostalgic urban scene.

This… Is Black Louisville

Currently On View in the Carriage House

Upcoming Exhibits

Each stitch in a quilt, coverlet, or sampler tells a story—a story of physical necessity, artistic expression, and cultural tradition. From the Same Cloth: Textiles of the Ohio Valley explores 250 years of textiles and the diverse narratives they share. Through historic and contemporary works, this exhibit reveals how fiber arts express identity and connect families across time. As our nation reflects on its 250 year history, we invite you to come experience that history woven into the rich fabric of the Ohio Valley.

Quilt with red and pink flower centerpiece, green vine, and leaves on a textured white background. Elegant, floral design with intricate patterns.

From the Same Cloth: Textiles & Handwork of the Ohio Valley

On View in the Nash Gallery starting May 29th, 2026

From the grandeur of Swan Lake and The Nutcracker to adaptive dance programs and neighborhood performances, Louisville Ballet has been sharing the joy of dance since 1951. The Filson’s new exhibit, Behind the Curtain: 75 Years of Louisville Ballet, will break down a ballet production from concept to curtain call. Come explore how Louisville Ballet has grown and changed over the past 75 years and how it will continue to impact arts and culture in our community for many more years to come.

A ballerina sits on stage, watching dancers in white tutus perform under soft spotlight. Curtains depict trees, enhancing a whimsical, serene atmosphere.

Behind the Curtain: Louisville Ballet 75th Anniversary

On View in the Bingham Gallery starting September 18th, 2026

In 2023, we launched the History Inspires Fellowship to encourage makers of all kinds – visual artists, musicians, poets, quilters, dancers, and more – to use the collection as inspiration for new creative work. So far, seven artists have participated in this program. Over the coming months, our History Inspires spotlight exhibition will individually showcase their projects.

2024 History Inspires Fellows: John Akre, Tammy Burke, Zed Saeed, Ashley Thursby

2025 History Inspires Fellows: Lori Larusso, Moria Magre, Sarah Pennington

A small brick church with a large, colorful stained glass window and a red door is illuminated at night, creating a warm and inviting glow.

History Inspires Showcase

Rotating Showcase Coming Soon to the Carriage House

Online Exhibits

Digital exhibits can be accessed on our Omeka website or by clicking the images below.

The Incomparable Helen Humes: The Life and Career of Louisville’s Legendary Jazz and Blues Singer

Breaking the Mold: Sculptor Enid Yandell

Paul Günter: Studio Portraiture to Art Photography

Forgotten Foundations: Louisville’s Lost Architecture

The Kentucky State Fair, 1816-2015

The Evolution of Camp Zachary Taylor

Visit the Filson

Open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm

The Filson is closed to the public the 3rd Friday of every month.

1310 S. 3rd St., Louisville, KY 40208
(502) 635-5083

Plan Your Visit to the Filson! To register or purchase tickets for our events, please visit our Events Page.

The Research Library is open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30pm; we are closed on the third Friday of each month. Appointments are not required, but feel free to reserve a seat online – learn more here. We also provide remote research services; please complete our research request form online here.

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