Norman Rockwell and the Art of Scouting 

Norman Rockwell and the Boy Scouts of America are often underestimated these days. Rockwell is often looked upon as little more than a talented illustrator who’s given too many unimaginative home decorators an easy out for folksy Americana options, while it seems as though today’s grade-schoolers are only into smartphones and PSPs, not merit badges that boast the ability to practice fire safety, canoeing or chemistry. In reality, both Rockwell’s images and the Scouts are more modern and versatile than that. Rockwell felt compelled to depict images of poverty and racial strife in his efforts to document the present as he saw it. And the Scouts have also adapted, adding various social and technology-related badges to the requirements of gaining the coveted Eagle Scout status. Norman Rockwell and the Art of Scouting celebrates the historical bond between two institutions that still very much matter. Check out the new permanent exhibit at the National Scouting Museum, 1329 W. Walnut Hill Lane in Irving. Visit bsamuseum.org for details. — By Kelly Dearmore

Price: $5-$8