William Steig Exhibition to End Run at Rockwell Museum
STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — ”William Steig: Love & Laughter,” an exhibition featuring the work of the renowned
“New Yorker” cartoonist/picture book artist, will end its successful run at Norman Rockwell Museum on Saturday, Oct. 31.Dubbed “sheer joy” by “The Boston Globe,” the acclaimed exhibition was made possible through a gift of 800 original Steig artworks to the museum, courtesy of the artist’s widow Jeanne (whose sculptures of found objects can also be seen in the show). Original illustrations from Steig’s children’s books “Alpha Beta Chowder” (authored by Jeanne Steig) and “Shrek!” have been loaned by The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst.
Once named the “King of Cartoons” by “Newsweek” magazine, William Steig (1907-2003) is renowned for his uproarious comic art, and such best-selling illustrated books as the Caldecott-winning “Sylvester and the Magic Pebble,” and “Shrek!” (the inspiration for the blockbuster DreamWorks animated films). “William Steig: Love & Laughter” explores the breadth of the artist’s inspired career, from his earliest “New Yorker” cartoons to his buoyant magazine covers and brilliantly funny reflections on love and life. The exhibition is expected to travel following its run at Norman Rockwell Museum.
The museum plans a Halloween Bash on Oct. 31, from 2 to 4 p.m. Mary Jo Maichack will be on hand to share her own spooky tales, with Halloween art activities and seasonal treats offered throughout the afternoon. Costumes are optional, but encouraged. Admission to the Halloween Bash is for ages six and up, and costs $6, $5 for museum members.
The Norman Rockwell Museum is open year-round. From May through October, hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; from November through April, hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Rockwell’s studio is open May through October, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Museum admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students, and $13.50 for seniors. Antenna Audio Tour of select paintings from the museum’s permanent Norman Rockwell collection is available. For more information, go to www.nrm.org or call 413-931-2221.
