The Rockwell Museum is not only the comprehensive look at the life and work of Norman Rockwell, still one of the most beloved artists that America has ever produced; it also seeks to put Rockwell and his work into context by examining his contributions to society, popular culture and social commentary. Housed in a Robert A.M. Stern building high on a hill just outside Stockbridge, the museum’s idyllic environs are an apt setting for Rockwell’s nostalgic portraits of the 1940s and 50s.
Beyond being an exhibition space for over 500 of Rockwell’s paintings, the museum is also dedicated to a broader consideration of American illustration as a whole; recent exhibits have been dedicated to sketch artist Sol Schwartz, Curious George creators Margret and H. A. Rey, and the Blue Sky animation studio. Occasional outdoor sculpture installations are featured as well. In keeping with its mission of community outreach and instruction, the Rockwell offers a number of programs, including a “Summer Sketch” club, a Fall Foliage walking tour and “Multicultural Bridges,” a summer program for children featuring music, storytelling, workshops and interactive gallery tours. Visitors can also visit Rockwell’s last studio, which stands on the grounds and has been restored to its early ’60s appearance. (JM)
Norman Rockwell Museum Information
- Public Transportation: Good (a 2-miute walk from BRTA bus 21 at Glendale Road/Butler Road)
- Handicapped Accessibility: Good
- Hours: November–April open daily: Weekdays 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Weekends and holidays 10 a.m.–5 p.m. May–October and holidays: open daily: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and until 7:00 p.m. on Thursdays in July and August
- Admission: $16 Adults; $14.50 Seniors (65+); $10 College students (w/ID); $5 Children/Teens (6–18); Free for children (5 and under) and members. Free admission for active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day–Labor Day
- Tour: Available for Adult groups ($12.50 per person for groups that pay in full on or before arrival or $13.50 for groups that wish to be invoiced); College groups ($10.00 per person); Camp groups ($4 per person); and School groups (prices vary according to program)
- Audio Tour: $5 Adults; $4 Kids/Seniors/Members
- Membership: Individual membership is $50 (Dual/Family $75). Benefits include free unlimited admission; Portfoliomembers’ publication; Programs & Events, the Museum’s quarterly calendar; invitations to exhibition openings; discounts on educational workshops and art classes; and a10% discount at the Museum Store and online (excludes Artist Proofs and Signed Prints)
- Other Benefits: Reciprocal membership to other museums is available at the Gallery Guild level ($250).
