“Four Sporting Boys: Baseball,” Norman Rockwell, 1951. 13 1/2” x 12”. Collection of Williams High School Alumni Association on permanent loan to Norman Rockwell Museum. ©NRELC: Niles, IL.

Stockbridge, MA, June 26, 2011—Though not necessarily a sportsman himself, artist Norman Rockwell was frequently called upon to create images celebrating our national love of athletics—from baseball and football, to fishing, basketball, boxing and biking. Norman Rockwell Museum will celebrate the love of the game and opening of its newest exhibition, “Norman Rockwell: Sports!“ with a special sports-themed family festival to be held at the Museum on Saturday, July 7, from 12 to 4 p.m.

Start the afternoon with a game of catch with the Pittsfield Elms, outdoors on the Museum’s bucolic grounds. At 1 p.m., join LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals Hall of Famer Kay McMahon for an educational look at putting on the “green.” At 1:30 p.m. enjoy a fly fishing demo from Rick Moon, followed by a 2:30 p.m. talk with field hockey coach Sally Close. Throughout the day meet representatives from the National Baseball, Basketball, and Volleyball Halls of Fame; United States Golf Museum; the Western Mass Pioneers Soccer Club; and enjoy a special display of New York Yankees memorabilia. Come dressed in support of your favorite team, and enjoy tours and art activities related to the exhibition “Norman Rockwell: Sports.” The afternoon celebration is free with Museum admission; members free.

“Norman Rockwell: Sports!”
On view July 6 through October 28

Norman Rockwell’s enduring images of popular sports and America’s youth at play are celebrated in this acclaimed installation, which includes “Strictly a Sharpshooter (1941),” the “Four Sporting Boys” series (1949), “The Recruit” (1966), and “Springtime in Stockbridge” (1971). Norman Rockwell’s own bicycle, which he rode regularly to maintain his stamina for the long hours that he spent painting in his studio, will also be on view.