Rockwell Exhibit Presents 1940s America as Seen Through Iconic Artist’s Eyes

The Carrollton Center for the Arts’ becomes a portal into the past as Norman Rockwell in the 1940s: A View of the American Homefront brings the work of one of America’s most celebrated artists to town, February 22 through April 4.

Organized by the Norman Rockwell Museum of Stockbridge, Massachusetts, the traveling exhibit presents a collection of 44 original tear-sheets of Rockwell’s Saturday Evening Post covers from the 1940s. Inspired by life on the American homefront during World War II, the Four Freedoms, Rosie the Riveter, Homecoming Soldier and hapless-but-lovable infantryman, Willie Gillis, are among the many memorable images featured in the show.

“The show will allow visitors a glimpse into American culture in the Forties during the war,” said Marcella Kuykendall, the center’s visual arts coordinator. “Rockwell’s paintings bring so many iconic
characters to life.”

“We also have a local connection to the exhibit.” Kuykendall pointed out. “Rockwell’s painting of a country school house was created from a school right here in West Georgia during one of the artist’s travels through the U.S. This image is included in the show, allowing individuals to take a look into this area’s past.”

Founded in 1969 with the help of Norman and Molly Rockwell, the Norman Rockwell Museum is dedicated to the enjoyment and study of Rockwell’s work and his contributions to society, popular
culture and social commentary.

During the free exhibit’s Carrollton run, two Rockwell-themed events will offer the chance to further explore the artist’s work and the era in which it was created.

1940s Norman Rockwell Cocktail Preview Party & Concert with America’s Sweethearts. This exclusive preview on Feb. 21 opens the exhibit with a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres party. UWG art
professor, Perry Kirk, will help frame Rockwell’s work in the context of early 20th Century graphic art and discuss some of the Rockwell’s fellow commercial artists and their impact on American culture.

Female close-harmony group, America’s Sweethearts, will bring vintage songs (many popularized by the Andrews Sisters) and a swinging, boogie-woogie sound to the Danny Mabry Theatre stage. The cocktail party starts at 6:30pm and the concert starts at 7:30pm. Admission is $35 per person or $60 per couple. This event is not recommended for anyone under 21.

Opening Reception. Feb. 22, from 5-7pm. The exhibit’s free public opening will feature live music, refreshments and special guests that will share their memories of Rockwell’s visit to Carrollton.
Gallery Play Saturday: Draw Like Rockwell. This student-friendly event on March 16 will tour the exhibit, reveal some fun facts and history and feature a drawing lesson using pencil, charcoal and
pastel (provided by the Center for the Arts). Gallery Play will be held in two age-specific sessions: 8-12 years, 10am; 13-16 years, 12pm. $5 per student. Each session is limited to 20 participants.

For questions concerning this event or the Carrollton Center for the Arts, please call Tim Chapman, Arts Superintendent at (770) 838-1083.