By James Williams, Editor

The Germantown Historical Society, in collaboration with the Elaine de Kooning House, is set to host an exciting new exhibition, Cardboard Genius: The Architectural Marvels of Kambel Smith. This highly anticipated showcase will highlight 11 intricate architectural sculptures by Germantown-based artist Kambel Smith, a self-taught creator renowned for his ability to construct detailed city landmarks entirely from memory.

The exhibition, running from March 29, 2025, through June 29, 2025, offers visitors the chance to explore Smith’s remarkable use of found materials—primarily cardboard—to recreate some of Philadelphia’s most iconic structures. Featured works include models of Congregation Rodeph Shalom, the Chinatown Arch, and Germantown’s Nugent Home, among others.

Meet the Artist: Kambel Smith

Born in 1986, Kambel Smith is a Philadelphia-based artist recognized for his intricate, large-scale sculptures of architectural landmarks. Working primarily with salvaged materials such as cardboard and foam board, Smith meticulously reconstructs buildings with astonishing detail. His talent has gained national and international recognition, with his works included in collections at the American Folk Art Museum, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and The West Collection.

Smith identifies as an “Autisarian,” a term his family coined to describe autism as a gift that enhances his artistic abilities. He credits his neurodiversity as a key factor in his ability to memorize and recreate architectural masterpieces. His father, Lonnie Smith, emphasizes the impact of their Germantown neighborhood on his son’s work:

“Living in Germantown, surrounded by history, has only fueled his creativity. The old brick houses, churches, and historic landmarks speak to him in a way I can’t quite explain. He doesn’t just see them—he understands them. He notices things others don’t, and he brings those details into his work, making his sculptures feel alive.”

Smith’s artistic journey began with oil paintings, but he transitioned to cardboard sculpture as a way to explore architecture more expansively. One of his most ambitious works to date is a 26-foot-10-inch replica of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, built entirely from cardboard. His sculptures have been exhibited at prestigious venues such as the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center and the Elaine de Kooning House, and in 2021, he was honored with a Pew Fellowship in the Arts.

A Collaborative Effort

This exhibition is the result of a collaborative effort between the Germantown Historical Society, Chris Byrne (Founder and Director of the Elaine de Kooning House in East Hampton, NY), Kambel Smith, and his family. Smith previously held a residency at the Elaine de Kooning House, where he continued to refine his unique craft.

Tuomi Forrest, Executive Director of Historic Germantown/Germantown Historical Society, shared his enthusiasm for the exhibit, stating:

“We are thrilled to present this exhibit of Kambel Smith’s architectural sculptures, including several representing local landmarks. This is a unique opportunity for community members to experience newly created works by a longtime Germantown resident.”

Exhibit Details & Visitor Information

The public is invited to view Cardboard Genius: The Architectural Marvels of Kambel Smith beginning Saturday, March 29, 2025, during the museum’s regular hours:

Thursdays – Saturdays, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Location: Germantown Historical Society, Philadelphia, PA


This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the intersection of art, history, and community through the extraordinary talent of a local artist. Visitors will be amazed by Smith’s ability to breathe new life into the city’s architectural history—one piece of cardboard at a time.

For more information, visit [Historic Germantown’s website] or follow them on social media for updates.