This isn\u2019t just an art exhibit\u2014it\u2019s a unique blend of creativity and nature that\u2019ll inspire your kids to see the world through the eyes of faith, art, and curiosity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cLittle Beasts\u201d is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. It pairs nearly 75 paintings, prints, and drawings from the 16th and 17th centuries with 60 real-life specimens, including elephant beetles, seashells, and taxidermy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Artists like Joris Hoefnagel and Jan van Kessel, Dutch masters of their time, captured God\u2019s \u201clittle beasts\u201d with jaw-dropping precision, turning insects and animals into works of worship on canvas and parchment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Imagine standing with your kids, marveling at a 1653 oil painting of insects by Jan van Kessel, then looking right next to it at the actual bugs he depicted, loaned from the Smithsonian. It\u2019s a powerful reminder of Psalm 19:1, \u201cThe heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.\u201d This exhibit doesn\u2019t just show art; it invites you to trace the Creator\u2019s fingerprints in every wing, shell, and feather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What makes \u201cLittle Beasts\u201d a treasure for your family? The free Little Beasts Nature Journal and NGA pencil handed out at the exhibit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your kids can channel their inner artist, sketching creatures and plants just like Hoefnagel did centuries ago. The journal encourages them to slow down, observe, and draw the world around them, whether it\u2019s a dragonfly in the exhibit or a leaf in your backyard. It\u2019s a chance to mimic the greats while cultivating a heart of gratitude for God\u2019s creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Magnifying glasses are also available, letting your kids zoom in on the intricate details of art and specimens. It\u2019s a tactile, engaging way to teach them to \u201cconsider the lilies\u201d (Matthew 6:28) and notice the small, miraculous details of the world God made.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This exhibit isn\u2019t just educational\u2014it\u2019s a chance to disciple your kids in wonder. The interplay of art and nature shows how human creativity, inspired by God\u2019s handiwork, can deepen our awe for Him. Plus, admission is free, and the National Gallery is right on the National Mall (6th St. & Constitution Ave. NW), making it an easy addition to a DC day trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Take your family to \u201cLittle Beasts\u201d and watch your kids\u2019 eyes light up as they connect art, nature, and faith. Grab those journals, sketch like the Dutch masters, and let the Creator\u2019s beauty spark conversations with Him. See you at the gallery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cLittle Beasts: Art, Wonder, and the Natural World\u201d is open May 18\u2013November 2, 2025, on the first floor of the National Gallery of Art West building. For more information on hours and visiting, check their website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want more family field trip recommendations in the nation’s capital? Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Porcupine,](\"https:\/\/whattoseeinwashingtondc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PXL_20250514_225319660-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nArt Meets Nature in a Divine Dance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Free](\"https:\/\/whattoseeinwashingtondc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PXL_20250514_220400124-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHands-On Wonder for Your Kids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Exhibit](\"https:\/\/whattoseeinwashingtondc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PXL_20250514_2201471952-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhy You Should Go<\/h2>\n\n\n\n