In celebration of The Rockwell Museum’s 40th anniversary, guest artists Steven Ladd and William Ladd were asked to curate an exhibition that reflects their American experience. The brothers mined The Rockwell Museum’s collection in order to create 40 visual stories. Each object has been installed in a unique grouping designed to alter its original meaning, encouraging us to view them in a new light. In 40 for 40, the artistic creation is the new context rather than the objects themselves. 

Although self taught, the Ladds are professional artists who have been collaborating in New York City for over 16 years. They have installed select pieces of their own work alongside objects curated from The Rockwell’s collection in order to better tell their American story. Universal themes such as “Childhood,” “Home,” and “Ceremony” will resonate with museum visitors.

40 for 40 explores the art of looking! It does not require a knowledge of art. It prompts us to filter each work through the lens of our own personal experience. This new approach to curation has never before been explored at The Rockwell. This 40th anniversary exhibition will provoke our visitors’ curiosity, ignite imagination, and challenge their perspectives.