Step into the state’s home at Nashville’s newest temporary exhibit

Don’t table the Tennessee State Museum’s exhibit, “Tennessee Furniture,” which boasts 45 pieces and opens on April 20.

A sign reads, "Tennessee State Museum Bill Haslam Center" and in the background you can see the exterior of the museum building.

Did we mention it’s free to view? | Photo by NASHtoday

If furnishings could tell a story, it might sound a lot like what you’ll learn from the Tennessee State Museum’s newest exhibit, “Tennessee Furniture.”

The temporary display launches on Saturday, April 20, showcasing 45 pieces and artifacts from the late 18th century to contemporary makers. Guests will notice four areas of interest:

  • Furniture in Action | Looks at how furniture was used in the home (think: pie safes and sugar chests)
  • Made by Hands | Looks at the materials, designs, and techniques of a craftsperson, which can be traced to specific communities
  • Furniture Makers | Looks at the business of furniture making, with a special focus on the contributions of journeymen, laborers, and more
  • Furniture as Art | Looks at the craftmanship and innovative designs of past and contemporary makers

Bonus: Pencil in a special Lunch and Learn programming date led by Senior Curator of Fine Art Candice Candeto and centered around the exhibit on Thursday, May 16. RSVP now.

More from NASHtoday
We’re asking our readers to submit their top questions about Nashville. We’ll do our best to answer them in 2026.
These city gifts are way better than a Jelly of the Month Club membership.
Whether you’re looking forward to Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Christmas, here are some ways you can celebrate around town this year.
It may not change for you, but if it does, expect a new pickup day starting in early February.
Billy Strings? Check. Rascal Flatts? Check. It’s not a bad idea to triple-check this list and get your concert tickets before they sell out.
From plows to color-coded routes, Nashville has outlined how it will handle whatever winter brings.
A grassroots effort is helping Middle Tennessee properties become part of a nationwide habitat network.
It’s that time of year again — Spotify Wrapped is out and so is our annual roundup of your year in local news.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Eastpoint is the new name for the mixed-use district planned on Metro-owned land along the East Bank.