THIS SUMMER , the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge will welcome an exhibition that exemplifies the transformative power of American illustration . What , Me Worry ? The Art and Humor of MAD Magazine promises an unrestrained exploration of one of America ' s most impactful humor publications .
Gone MAD !
NORMAN ROCKWELL MUSEUM CELEBRATES MAD MAGAZINE ’ S CULTURAL IMPACT
B y B e n j a m i n L e r n e r
THIS SUMMER , the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge will welcome an exhibition that exemplifies the transformative power of American illustration . What , Me Worry ? The Art and Humor of MAD Magazine promises an unrestrained exploration of one of America ' s most impactful humor publications .
The exhibition , which opens June 8 , will spotlight hundreds of original illustrations , magazine covers , and signature magazine “ fold-ins ” from some of MAD Magazine ’ s most beloved issues . The illustrations were crafted by MAD ' s celebrated contributors , including Norman Mingo , Don Martin , Angelo Torres , Al Jaffee , and Mort Drucker , among many others . A dedicated section of the exhibition will explore MAD ' s satirical approach , showcasing caricatures and parodies that reflect the magazine ' s incisive cultural commentary . The exhibition also aims to spotlight key figures who played pivotal roles in shaping MAD ' s identity , such as EC Comics publisher Bill Gaines and early MAD Magazine editors Harvey Kurtzman and Al Feldstein . Collectively , MAD ’ s creative pioneers were fondly known within
Richard Williams
Alfred E . Neuman and Norman Rockwell , 2002 . Cover illustration for Mad Art : A Visual Celebration of MAD Magazine and the Idiots Who Create It ( Watson Guptill , 2002 ) Oil on canvas James Halperin Collection , Courtesy of Heritage Auctions , HA . com MAD and all related elements TM & © E . C . Publications . Courtesy of DC . All Rights Reserved . Used with permission .
the halls of their legendary New York City office as the " Usual Gang of Idiots ." MAD ’ s artists and writers fearlessly channeled their creative passions within MAD ' s pages . The impact was far-reaching , greatly influencing contemporary comedy and other art forms . The chemistry within MAD ’ s writing room translated into brilliant art and storytelling that will be reflected in the exhibition at Norman Rockwell Museum .
May / June 2024 BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE // 65