Comic book legend to visit The Berkshires

By Kameron Z. Spaulding

STOCKBRIDGE – What child hasn’t enjoyed the stories of great superheroes coming to save the day?

This fall, Norman Rockwell Museum will present a comprehensive look at the career of illustrator Alex Ross, who has been called “the Norman Rockwell of the comics world.” The exhibit “Heroes and Villains: The Comic Book Art of Alex Ross” will be on view at the museum from Nov. 10 through Feb. 24, 2013.

Mr. Ross is known for his unique, photorealistic renderings of such beloved superheroes as Superman, Batman and Spider-Man. He helped revitalize the comic book industry, capturing a new generation of readers, and bridging the gap between comic and fine art.

“Heroes and Villains” is the first museum exhibition celebrating the art of Alex Ross. Organized by The Andy Warhol Museum, one of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, the exhibition features more than 130 works, including paintings, drawings, photographs and sculptures from Mr. Ross’ personal collection.

“Norman Rockwell Museum is thrilled to be able to present the work of Alex Ross,” said Museum Director/CEO Laurie Norton Moffatt. “Just as millions of readers in the 20th century were introduced to the world of art courtesy of Norman Rockwell, that tradition continues today thanks to Ross’ beautifully painted illustrations, which combine photographic realism and imaginative storytelling.”

Spanning the artist’s life and career, the exhibition features rarely-seen works—from his early crayon drawing of Spider-Man, created at the age of four, to his groundbreaking work for such books as Marvel, Justice and Kingdom Come. “Heroes and Villains” reveals Mr. Ross’ personal and artistic goal to redefine comic books for a new generation.

The exhibition also pays homage to the artist’s inspirations, including original work by his mother Lynette Ross (who was also a successful illustrator), Frank Bez, Andrew Loomis and Norman Rockwell. Also featured in the exhibition are works by Andy Warhol, a huge comic book fan, including his Myths series, which mirrors many of the subjects depicted in Mr. Ross’ work.

“Norman Rockwell has been one of the greatest influences on my art, and it is an enormous honor to be featured in the museum dedicated to his work,” Mr. Ross said. “I have always looked upon Rockwell’s style as the peak of what one could hope to achieve artistically. The artist’s realistic execution and eye for composition are things I aspire to, knowing that he performed a quality of work that isn’t easily achieved. It is a major career achievement for me to have my work in company with his.”

Meet the artist

The real highlight for Mr. Ross’ fans is the chance to meet the artist.

A members’ opening event for the exhibition will be held on Saturday, Nov. 10, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., with a rare appearance by Mr. Ross, who will also be conducting a book signing during the event. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact the museum.

Posted by Kameron Z. Spaulding on October 25, 2012. Filed under Community Events,News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry