A reproduction of Norman Rockwell’s “Freedom of Speech” is on display in the magazine room of Westlake Porter Public Library. The 1943 painting is one of 40 American masterpieces included in “Picturing America,” a program sponsored by the National Endowment For the Humanities. (West Life photo by Kevin Kelley)

Masterpieces at library tell story of America
By Kevin Kelley
Westlake
Published June 17, 2009

If you’ve been to Westlake Porter Public Library lately, you may have noticed some new artwork — 20 American masterpieces.

The library is one of over 76,000 schools, libraries and Head Start centers in 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories participating in “Picturing America,” a program funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). According to the NEH Web site, several Westshore schools, including Hilliard Elementary School in Westlake, have participated or will participate in the program.

Participating organizations receive 40 large reproductions (one on each side) of selected American masterpieces, an educators’ resource book, and online resources providing more information about the works and artists. The 24-by-36-inch laminated posters portray America’s history, ideals and aspirations, and include such varying works as Emanuel Leutz’s “Washington Crossing the Delaware,” Alexander Gardner’s famous photograph of Abraham Lincoln, and the Ohio State Capitol Building in Columbus.

Photographer Dorothea Lange's 1936 image, entitled "Migrant Mother," became an iconic image of the Great Depression.

The national program was launched at a White House ceremony with then President George W. Bush in February 2008.

“Picturing America helps us understand our democracy by bringing us face to face with the people, places, and events that have shaped our country,” said then NEH Chairman Bruce Cole. “It provides an innovative way to experience America’s history through our nation’s art.”

   To highlight the program, the library will hold a contest through Aug. 15 in which visitors will be asked to find each of the 20 selected reproductions posted throughout the building. Participants will then submit a sheet listing the names of the works and artists to enter drawing for prizes, including gift certificates from local restaurants and art kits for kids.

Porter Library Director Andrew Mangels said he hopes that in addition to learning about the art and the stories behind the works, contest participants will venture into parts of the library they may not be familiar with and become more aware of all that Porter has to offer.

On the Web:

• Westlake Porter Public Library
• Picturing America Web site