Rachel Louchen reports from Stockbridge. Much like Norman Rockwell, Mort Künstler gained his fame as an artist who has painted America's story. So the exhibition "Mort Künstler: The Art of Adventure" couldn't be more welcomed than at the Norman Rockwell Museum. An opening reception on Saturday, November 15 honored the artist, who is known for his highly researched historical paintings and extremely detailed images. Advertisements, book jackets and magazine covers, as well as paintings of figures from the Civil War, large-scale animals and posters from iconic movies such as The Poseidon Adventure highlighted just how versatile the artist's 60-year career has been. The turnout included proud family members, friends and longtime fans who were thrilled to meet the gregarious artist. The exhibition, which includes more than 80-pieces of work, will be on exhibit until March 15, with an artist conversation to be held February 21. Above, Mort Künstler with deputy director/chief curator Stephanie Plunkett.
NRM’s Director Laurie Norton Moffatt; president of the museum's board of trustees Robert Horvath and his wife, Lynne Horvath with webmaster and interactive media designer Dan Heck.
The honoree's grandson Tom Künstler with his grandmother, Deborah Künstler; the museum's external relations coordinator Lisa Lewis, with chief operating officer Jill Gellert and Bill Gellert.
Martin Mahoney, NRM's director of collections and exhibitions and Jane Künstler , daughter of the artist.
Künstler's niece Debra Malone came out to support her Uncle Mort, here with longtime friend, Stockbridge resident Gretchen Wehrle- Scott; Pittsfield residents Merrill Roberts and June Waldman with Mary Jo Engels of East Otis.
Zack Murdock and Barbara Murdock drove up from Long Island to attend the exhibit of their favorite artist; Aaron Stein and Kerry Morris.
Laurie Moffatt with her daughter, Leigh, stands in front of her favorite piece in the exhibition, a painting depicting George Washington crossing the Delaware River.
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Matteline deVries-Dilling, founder of Lite Brite Neon, one of the evening's honoree of this year's Upstate Benefit adresses the gala from the Caboose's caboose.
- Karen Pearson. Courtesy Art Omi.
Olana senior vice president and landscape curatorMark Prezorski, president Sean Sawyer, The evenings honoree Kristin Gamble and New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett.
- Oxygen House Photo
