For Immediate Release: May 4, 2004
Further information: Ann Scanlon (617) 514-1662
The Museum at the John F. Kennedy Library has secured a rare public display of Jamie Wyeth's oil painting "Man From Boston." The painting will be on display beginning Thursday, May 20th, in the Museum.
Born in 1946 and accomplished in his own right, Jamie Wyeth is the son of Andrew Wyeth, one of America’s most popular and prominent painters. The painting is from the collection of Jane Gleklen Wyeth.
In 1966, 20-year-old Jamie Wyeth was inspired to paint "Man From Boston." He viewed hours of tapes of President Kennedy to discern how this piece would take form. In 1968, he joined Robert Kennedy on the presidential campaign trail; memories of RFK striding on stage to deliver a speech became central to his evolving vision for "Man From Boston." Ultimately, viewers will note that "Man From Boston" depicts John F. Kennedy, but the artist sees this representation of JFK at the 1960 Democratic National Convention as representative of all Americans who choose to serve the people and run for public office. "Man From Boston" reflects the everyman and woman who stands alone before the cheering crowd to share his or her vision and beliefs, determined and resolute.
The Museum Store offers for purchase signed and unsigned poster reproductions of "Man From Boston," as well as an array of unique 1960 campaign items. "Man From Boston" will be on display in the Museum at the John F. Kennedy Library from May 20, 2004, through January 20, 2005, Inauguration Day, as part of the Library’s larger special exhibit Campaign!, which celebrates the American political process and JFK’s 1960 campaign for the presidency.