Pops Peterson, “Freedom From Fear,” 2014. Courtesy Pops Peterson. All rights reserved.

Stockbridge, MA, July 23, 2015—Norman Rockwell Museum will present a talk with artist Maurice “Pops” Peterson about his “Reinventing Rockwell” series of artworks on Thursday, July 30, starting at 5:30 p.m. Recently honored at the Northeast Regional Conference on Fair Housing and Civil Rights, Peterson will detail how his work reimagined the art of Norman Rockwell to reflect the realities and diversity of today’s American scene.

Peterson, who describes the talk as a “true story of ghosts and miracles, presented with nearly scores of illustrations,” will also discuss his artistic journey—from graphic designer and writer to the world of fine art. Sponsored by Ungar Foundation, the event is presented as part of the Museum’s summer series of talks and performances held on Thursday evenings; admission is free for Museum members or with regular Museum admission. Reservations are recommended by contacting the Museum at 413.931.2221 or programs@nrm.org.

Maurice “Pops” Peterson began his artistic pursuits as a painting major at the High School of Music and Art, with further studies at Pratt Institute and Columbia University. For many years Peterson wrote for such publications as Andy Warhol’s Interview, Essence Magazine, The Village Voice, and New York Times. He also authored stage plays as well as television and screenplays, including the 1982 film, Homework, starring Joan Collins, and created the world’s first telephone soap opera, “Dial-A-Soap!.” with Jon Rupp.

Since 2005, Peterson has been the owner and general manager of SEVEN salon.spa, with his husband, Mark Johnson. After nearly twenty years as a web designer and layout artist, he also entered the world of fine art; his debut solo exhibition, New Frontiers in Pop Art, was presented at Lauren Clark Fine Art in Great Barrington, Massachusetts in 2014. He was named the first Artist in Residence of the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination for 2015-2016. Learn more at the artist’s website: www.popspeterson.com
Summer Evenings with Art
Thursdays, July and August
5:30 to 7 p.m.

Enjoy this series of talks, performances, and wellness experiences inspired by the art of Norman Rockwell and Roz Chast. Free with Museum admission; members free. Reservations are recommended.

Storytelling Today:
StorySlam with Ben Cunningham, Norah Dooley, and Tony Toledo
Thursday, August 6, 5:30 p.m.

Enjoy real-life narratives by three award-winning storytellers. “Like Family” and “In a Different Life” are themes to be explored. Following interactive exercises, the audience is invited to share stories of their own. This event is a collaborative program with Massmouth, Boston, an organization dedicated to promoting the fine art of storytelling.

The Restorative Powers of Art and Yoga:
An Intergenerational Workshop with India Clark
Thursday, August 13, 5:30 p.m.

Explore movement, art making, breath work, and the powers of observation with museum educator/certified yoga teacher, India Clark. Come comfortably dressed, materials provided. Free with Museum admission, Museum members free.
What’s In Your Closet? Appraising Art and Antiques
Thursday, August 20, 5:30 p.m.

Learn how objects are appraised, and bring your special piece in for comment and an informal appraisal from Charlie Flint of Charles Flint Antiques in Lenox. Free with Museum admission, members free.

Laughter in the face of…well, you know
Thursday, August 27, 5:30 p.m.

Enjoy a humorous, melodic evening of song with A cappella group, Quintessential. Free with Museum admission, Museum members free.