Oxford, AL – On April 25th, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., Oxford, Alabama, is set to host a captivating event that promises to unravel the enchanting narratives behind the iconic works of Norman Rockwell. Presented by Dolores Hydock, this event, titled “Every Picture Tells a Story: The Storytelling of Norman Rockwell,” is a highlight of the “2024 Spring Arts & Culture Series” organized by the Oxford Arts Council in collaboration with the Alabama Humanities Alliance Road Scholars Speakers Bureau.
The event will take place at THE STUDIO in the Oxford Performing Arts Center, located at 100 East Choccolocco Street. Sponsored by The City of Oxford and the Oxford Performing Arts Center, this presentation offers attendees a unique opportunity to gain insight into the creative process of one of America’s most beloved artists.
Dolores Hydock, a renowned storyteller, will lead the audience through a behind-the-scenes exploration of Rockwell’s artistic journey. The focus will be on how Rockwell crafted his iconic “one-image stories” for The Saturday Evening Post, showcasing some of his most cherished covers. Attendees can expect to learn about Rockwell’s early career, his unexpected encounter with the editors of The Saturday Evening Post, and the techniques he employed throughout his illustrious career as an illustrator and artist.
Through slide images featuring Rockwell’s sketches, models, works-in-progress, and finished masterpieces, participants will gain valuable insights into Rockwell’s meticulous process. From conceptualization to execution, the audience will witness firsthand how Rockwell earned his title as “America’s Painter” and a preeminent storyteller on canvas.
This event, presented by the Oxford Arts Council, is free to attend, offering a cultural enrichment experience for all. The Alabama Humanities Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational and cultural programming to Alabamians, supports this initiative. As a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Alliance plays a vital role in promoting storytelling, lifelong learning, and civic engagement across Alabama.
The Road Scholars Speakers Bureau, comprising over 30 historians, professors, authors, and experts, collaborates with local organizations to facilitate arts and cultural activities throughout Alabama communities. Their support underscores the significance of events like “Every Picture Tells a Story,” which celebrate art, culture, and the enduring legacy of visionary artists like Norman Rockwell.
As attendees immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Norman Rockwell’s storytelling, they will undoubtedly gain a deeper appreciation for the timeless narratives embedded within each of his cherished works. Don’t miss this enriching event that promises to transport you into the heart of Rockwell’s artistic genius and the enduring power of visual storytelling.
