Willie Gillis Family Day
1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Norman Rockwell’s Willie Gillis: A 75th Anniversary Celebration
Willie Gillis, Norman Rockwell’s fictional Army private, told the story of one man’s army in a series of eleven published (and one unpublished) Saturday Evening Post covers during World War II, beginning in October 1941. Willie was depicted doing everything from proudly receiving a care package to peeling potatoes, reading the hometown news, and attending college on the G.I. Bill.
This exciting day of Willie Gillis-inspire activities will feature a special 1p.m. talk by James Kimble, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Communications at Seton Hall University, exploring the popularity of the Willie Gillis character among World War II soldiers. Talks will explore rationing, victory gardens, and World War II cuisine. Enjoy swing dancing and music from the Great American Songbook, art-making in the galleries, and more. Free for Museum members, or included with Museum admission.
The day’s events include:
1p.m.
Talk by James Kimble, Ph.D.
Private Passion: Norman Rockwell, Willie Gillis, and American Obsession in World War II
Location: Stockbridge Room
2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Swing Dancing with Dancer Sue Fisch
Learn the basics of swing dancing, the popular mid-century dance craze that includes the Lindy Hop.
Location: Classroom
2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Drawing Willie Gillis with Patrick O’Donnell
Try your hand at drawings inspired by Norman Rockwell’s original Willie Gillis paintings with a little help from illustrator Patrick O’Donnell.
Location: Main Gallery
3:15 p.m.
Rockwell’s Willie Gillis with Tom Daly
Curator of Education Tom Daly will discuss the evolution of Norman Rockwell’s fictional G.I. and the World War II homefront, which inspired the artist’s unlikely hero.
Location: Classroom
3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
The Great American Songbook: Music with David Bartley
Location: Main Lobby