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Norman Rockwell exhibit opening in Hallmark Visitors Center for holiday season

Highlights Rockwell's connections to Kansas City
Posted at 10:39 AM, Oct 05, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-05 11:51:10-04

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – What are some of the things that come to mind when you think about Christmas in Kansas City? Hallmark cards? Norman Rockwell, perhaps?

They all fit together like words in the chorus of a Christmas carol.

Starting this weekend and running into 2018, the folks at Hallmark have opened the Rockwell vault!

Curator of the Hallmark Art Collection Joe Houston said some 52 works will be displayed, highlighting Norman Rockwell’s take on Santa, family, winter and togetherness.

Rockwell was a favorite of Hallmark founder, J.C. Hall.

Hall contacted the artist about creating some images for greeting cards and a flourishing business relationship (and lasting friendship) began.

In the exhibit, you will not only see Rockwell’s work process, but you will also get a look at the personal correspondence between he and Hall.

In addition to holiday memories, there is also a moving display about Rockwell reaching out to Hall and offering his special help in overcoming the Great Kansas City Flood of 1951.

A sneak peek at the new Norman Rockwell exhibit opening in the Hallmark Visitors Center for Christmas.

Hall asked his friend to create something that would show Kansas City bouncing back and getting back to work.

The result is the now-iconic painting, “The Kansas City Spirit.”

There’s lots of “spirit” around the Hallmark Visitors Center right now… including holiday spirit.

The Hallmark Visitors Center is open Monday through Saturday. And, here’s a nice gift for the holidays (or anytime) – it’s free.