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Americans Who Tell the Truth: Portraits by Robert Shetterly

From July 1, 2023 to October 8, 2023

Location: Special Projects Gallery (Floor 2)

Many American citizens want to use their voice to bring about significant change in the world around them. But what does that look like?

Robert Shetterly’s Americans Who Tell the Truth series portrays heroic individuals who have dedicated their lives to improving their local and national communities. Each portrait shares a story of someone fighting for social, racial, economic or environmental justice. The paintings are a form of narrative activism in which Robert Shetterly shares the stories of people in our past and present who are fighting for social, racial, economic and environmental justice. When we are faced with making difficult decisions about questions of justice and morality, we can look to these truth-tellers as examples of selflessness and perseverance.

This exhibition is curated and generously supported by The Rockwell Museum’s Board of Trustees. Each Trustee selected a portrait of someone whose life and work resonates with them. Alongside each painting, you can find the Truth Teller’s biography and a label by our Board of Trustees describing their selection. If you’re interested in learning more about these notable American citizens, scan the QR codes on the artwork labels to see additional information on Shetterly’s website.

Agnes & The Arts: The Architectural Evolution of Old City Hall

On view: January 15, 2022 - March 20, 2022

Americans Who Tell the Truth: Portraits by Robert Shetterly

On view: July 1, 2023 - October 8, 2023