Children's Pleasures: American Celebrations of Childhood

This exhibition focuses on the evolving depictions of American childhood pleasures and pastimes from the early 19th century to the present. The works of art reflect and mirror the shifts in American lifestyles, societal mores, family paradigms, and the importance of play over two centuries.   The exhibition will include approximately 50 works dating from 1836 to 2008, created by 41 artists such as Elizabeth Catlett, William Merritt Chase, Asher B. Durand, George Luks, Norman Rockwell, and Philemona Williamson in a variety of media (paintings, prints, and sculpture).  The exhibit themes highlight children experiencing the pleasures of family and friends, the world of make-believe, holiday celebrations, games and toys, outdoor play, music and dance, and childhood mischief.

Curated by Hofstra University Professor Donna R. Barnes, Ed.D.

Philemona Williamson, Yearning to Be, 2006, Courtesy of June Kelly Gallery