American Stories: Revolution to Rockwell

Norman Rockwell Museum: In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, Norman Rockwell Museum will debut a major exhibition in 2026: American Stories: Revolution to Rockwell. This sweeping exhibition explores how artists—from the Revolutionary era to today–have made visible the evolving story of America. Featuring over 200 powerful works across themed sections, American Stories reveals how illustrations—from the 18th century to today—have reflected and shaped what it means to be American.

The exhibition includes original paintings, prints, book illustrations, broadsides, posters, advertisements, and digital media, from the Museum’s expansive holdings as well as major loans from important institutions and private collectors across the country, including the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.  From iconic masterpieces to everyday media, these works chart the nation’s ambitions, struggles, and enduring pursuit of freedom.