Rockwell’s work reminds us of a time when families gathered around the dinner table or piled into the car (a car without a DVD player) for family vacations, a time when kids found ways to amuse themselves that didn’t involve sitting in front of a computer or a television. An age when many families found themselves out on their front porches in search of a cool breeze and a good story, as they entertained themselves with what was happening in the neighborhood.

Rockwell’s nostalgic works will put you in just the right frame of mind to enjoy a little time on our Front Porch. We have created a porch inside the Museum, complete with rocking chairs and a shady yard. Stop by for a game of checkers with a friend or just a little girl talk under the trees. The Front Porch is the perfect spot to linger and share your thoughts and impressions about Rockwell’s work. This gathering spot also hosts storytellers and musicians throughout the American Chronicles exhibition.

But not to worry; we haven’t totally left the 21^st century behind. Your view from the porch includes a screen with photographs of porches submitted by people across the state, and Caption This, a project that lets visitors submit captions for select works from three exhibitions. Do stop by!

Here’s a sneak peek. Take a look at Guido Reni’s Madonna and Child…and while you look, click on the audio player below.

Download audio file (eng_14_Madonna-Reni_FIX.mp3)

(download mp3)

A fresh perspective, perhaps, and an invitation to look again in a new way: it’s a new approach to go along with the new building.

Update: You can now download the complete Sound Track Experience (as well as the complete Cell Phone Tour) directly from the Plan Your Visit section of the Museum site!