Discover Norman Rockwell as a Painter at American Chronicles

American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell presents an opportunity for Crystal Bridges guests to really look at Rockwell as a painter, distinct from our knowledge of him as an image-maker or illustrator or commercial artist. The paintings are masterful, informed by his deep art historical study and knowledge, and thrilling in their complexity and directness. They are a delight to behold.

This exhibition shows all 323 of Rockwell's Saturday Evening Post covers, which offers a great point of engagement for our visitors. People can view the installation as a timeline of the 20th century, and they may be drawn to finding important milestone dates in their own lives, such as their parents' wedding date, their birthday, or to remember where they were on a certain day. In so doing, one can see oneself in the 20th century, in context of what America looked like at that moment--through the eyes and art of Rockwell, and in many American homes by virtue of the millions who would have seen the Post covers. It's a fascinating visual timeline and memory trigger for many.

American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell
On View at Crystal Bridges March 9 through May 27

American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell was organized by the Norman Rockwell Museum, Stockbridge, Mass. This exhibition is made possible with the generous support from National Endowment for the Arts, American Masterpieces Program; the Henry Luce Foundation; Curtis Publishing Company; Norman Rockwell Family Agency; and the Stockman Family Foundation.

Sponsored at Crystal Bridges by the Bob Bogle Family, Cadillac of Bentonville, the Paul and June Carter Family, ConAgra Foods, Hallmark Cards, Inc., NWA Media/Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Harriet and Warren Stephens, Stephens Inc.

Publication support has been provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Media sponsorship has been provided by the Curtis Publishing Company and by the Norman Rockwell Family Agency. Conservation support has been provided by the Stockman Family Foundation.