Opening Reception happens from 4-6 PM on Friday, April 21st

Don’t miss this glorious retrospective which features a broad and carefully-curated collection of original works from six decades of Deborah Newton’s life-long artistic venture from downtown pioneer to supportive community leader. Thousands of her cherished works reside in homes, companies, and public institutions across the country. These joyful examples are assembled from private holdings to inspire a path forward for emerging local artists of all ages. Open through July 9th.

Deborah was the first to be awarded the Jessica Holt Purchase Award in 1992 that ultimately made it possible for her work to be included in RAM’s Permanent Collection. She stated then “My life as an artist is deeply rooted in Rockford. The seeds were sown as an eighth grader when I was awarded a scholarship for art classes at Rockford Art Museum.” Her family now continues her legacy with a perpetual endowment awarded annually to RAM for a locally chosen 7th or 8th grade student, or established artist, and their pursuit of an art-making experience via the museum. 

Thanks to a grant from Rockford Area Arts Council, admission is free to the museum. Galleries are open 10 AM to 6 PM Thursday through Sunday.

Curated by Joseph Zimmer • Exhibition sponsored by James Beall and Mac’s Moving & Storage