Dr. Marcella Bradway
Special Guest
Director of Surgery at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, MA
Stephanie Plunkett
Deputy Director / Chief Curator
Norman Rockwell Museum
Mary Berle
Chief Educator
Norman Rockwell Museum
Pull up your screen, pour a cup of tea (or coffee), and enjoy an inspired online conversation with Dr. Marcella Bradway, who joins us to offer insights into Rockwell’s art and observations on the state of healthcare in the Berkshires during COVID-19. Dr. Bradway is a surgeon with board certifications in general and colorectal surgery, she has been associated with Berkshire Medical Center since 2008.
Background on this week’s featured conversation:
From 1929 to 1961, Norman Rockwell created images for use in the advertising campaigns of two pharmaceutical companies and an optical company. These portrayals inspired us to view ourselves with optimism and to see our family doctors as kind, competent caregivers. They also presentedthe notion that health is affected as much by our emotional lives as by our physical well-being. Through his use of everyday scenes, Rockwell conveyed the hopefulness and idealism that characterized both his view of life and his admiration for the health professionals whose lifesaving work improves the quality of many people’s lives.
Reminiscing about the early part of his career, Norman Rockwell once said, “You could do pictures for ads in those days.” By “picture,” Rockwell meant he could tell a story rather than simply design an image around a product. Rockwell’s advertising illustrations for pharmaceuticals for Lambert Pharmacal, and The Upjohn Company and eyeglass lenses for American Optical are examples of this softer, more indirect method of marketing. Not only did his narratives convince consumers to buy, his signature provided tacit endorsement that enhanced a company’s image through association.
In this collection of advertising illustrations for the health industry, Rockwell tells his stories through such immediately recognizable scenes of everyday life that the aesthetic qualities of composition, detail, color and tonal
The Series:
Engage in online conversations inspired by Norman Rockwell and American Illustration. Participate in live talks, or watch at your convenience on our website and YouTube Channel. With the help of professionals and guests from all walks of life, NRM Chief Educator Mary Berle and Chief Curator Stephanie Plunkett will invite you to explore art by Rockwell and other noted artists illuminating compelling themes and their relevance today.