America 250 inspires an exhibition of Gari Melchers’ history paintings. During his career, patrons commissioned the artist to paint historic subjects for public buildings. Over life-size scenes fill their designated spaces in prominent libraries and two state capitols. The subjects range from allegory to posthumous portraits, for which the artist aimed to depict historically accurate appearances. General Nathanael Greene, Commodore Oliver Perry, and Mark Twain are among them. These paintings represent perspectives of their time, and prompt reflection on the lessons of history.
Gari Melchers standing in front of the mural The Arts of Peace (1893)
The GMHS collection has dozens of studies for these murals, providing a rare opportunity to see the artist’s process as he developed some of the final compositions. Neither intended nor conserved for public view, these sketches and paintings were saved by the artist nonetheless. The types of drawing surfaces, his design variations, and signs of use and aging provide a visual record of artistic activity, and range in size from mere inches to up to nine feet tall.
UMW students, faculty and staff may tour the exhibition for free. Check the website for seasonal hours.
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