Bristol-Myers donates N.C. Wyeth painting to BRM

Posted by Press Release on December 23, 2014

The painting, Public Health and Morale (circa 1943) depicts an idealized American family against a backdrop of busy wartime factories, with a squadron of military airplanes over head. It is one of two commissioned by E.R. Squibb and Sons (now Bristol-Myers Squibb). The other painting, The American Mother (1941), was given to the Brandywine River Museum of Art by the company in 1977. The paintings were commissioned for use as advertising window displays, and were also used in internal publications.

"We are pleased that Public Health and Morale will become part of the museum's permanent N.C. Wyeth collection so that those who are inspired by the work of N.C. Wyeth, his son Andrew, and grandson Jamie, can enjoy this work for years to come," said John Elicker, senior vice president, Public Affairs and Investor Relations, Bristol-Myers Squibb.

"This generous gift is a wonderful addition to our renowned collection of works by N. C. Wyeth," said Thomas Padon, director of the Brandywine Museum of Art. "Public Health and Morale powerfully evokes the patriotic spirit of America during World War II. The painting also provides a fascinating glimpse into the ideal of both the American family and industrial prowess at that time."

Newell Convers Wyeth (1882-1945) was one of America's foremost illustrators in the twentieth century. Throughout his career, Wyeth was sought after for book and magazine commissions, but he also strove for recognition in other spheres of art. His private work includes still lifes, portraits and landscapes of Chadds Ford and his summer property in Port Clyde, Maine. Wyeth also enjoyed a reputation as a muralist and painted advertising images. In every area, he proved himself to be an expert draughtsman and brilliant colorist. He explored various styles and mastered techniques which range from the broadly brushed to the near photographic.

Wyeth set down roots and raised his family in Chadds Ford Pennsylvania, starting an American painting dynasty that includes his daughters Henriette (1907-1997) and Carolyn (1909-1994), son Andrew Wyeth (1917-2009) and Andrew's son Jamie Wyeth (born 1946).