STOCKBRIDGE, MA—This holiday season, classic Rockwell artwork from the Norman Rockwell Museum (NRM) permanent collection are on view with rarely exhibited paintings from the Peter & Elaine Guiffreda Collection, and several privately-owned pieces. The art on view through February 9, demonstrates the compassionate spirit of giving more than just gifts—sharing kindness, love, and art.

Haddon Sundblom (1899-1976) Thirst Knows No Season, 1949. Advertisement for Coca-Cola. Oil on canvas. Private collection

Artwork on view includes Rockwell’s 1934 Tiny Tim and Bob Crachit which reminds us of the transformational power of kindness and compassion toward humanity. In Christmas Trio, a bundled-up group of Dickensian carolers and musicians give the gift of music, and Christmas Homecoming evokes the warmth of a joyous family gathering. Rockwell gave his 1941 cover illustration, Girl Reading the Post, to his friend and fellow artist, Walt Disney, two years after it was published. The Museum received the ultimate re-gift in 1999, when this important work was generously donated to NRM by the Walt Disney Family.

Discover artist Haddon Sundblom’s 1949 impish elfin figure Sprite Boy– who invites viewers into his soda fountain to enjoy a refreshing Coke. A heartwarming vision of Santa filling the stocking of a sleeping child by beloved 19th century author/illustrator Kate Greenaway is on view along with Harold Anderson’s sidewalk Santa, who offers a hungry dog a bit of his sandwich. The exhibition includes holiday cards created by artists like Rockwell, gifts of their talent for family and friends.

Reflect on the spirit of the holidays this season by experiencing these inspired works of art. More information is available here.