Americana art in Norton Family Legacy Art Collection on display in July

Brenau Galleries will host an opening reception for Celebrating Freedom, an exhibit in honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America, from 4-6 p.m. on July 2, at Leo Castelli Gallery.

The exhibition will display pieces selected from Brenau’s Norton Family Legacy Art Collection. More than 60 artworks featuring Americana themes will be on display, including large-scale paintings, needlepoint, small works and ceramics. The works selected reflect various elements of American life and culture, including the Statue of Liberty, the American Flag and stars-and-stripes motifs.

“This collection of work embodies the patriotic spirit as we approach the Independence Day holiday,” Lybi Cucurullo, director of Brenau Galleries, said. “It evokes both a feeling of pride and the nostalgic feeling of childhood summers as July Fourth rolls around. We wanted the work to feel like fireworks in the gallery, with rich colors and an eclectic selection that allows the viewer to decide which pieces represent their American experience.”

The Norton family has long supported Brenau, including the establishment of the Norton Family Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Frank Norton Jr. is a current trustee, and his late mother, Betty Verson Norton, WC ‘52, was an alumna and trustee emerita

“The history of the Norton family is intertwined with freedom, ingenuity and fulfillment of the American Dream, so it is fitting that part of their century of art collecting embodies significant symbols of independence, strength and resilience,” Frank Norton said. “Flags, leaders, eagles and liberty are part of The American Story and a vital thread in the fabric of the Norton family.”

The opening reception is free and open to the public. The exhibit will be on display in Leo Castelli Gallery throughout the summer.