The Ridge Historical Society will be open tomorrow, Tuesday, December 6, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The address is 10621 S. Seeley Avenue in Chicago. Admission is free.
A new feature has been added to the current exhibit, Hetherington Design Dynasty. Christmas cards designed by local artist Mildred Lyon Hetherington are now on display. Mildred sent these cards to family members and friends.
The Smithsonian Institute began adding personal Christmas cards designed by famous artists to its Archives of American Art in 2015.
Christmas card art that artists design for their personal use is a unique art form. The holidays are a time for reflection and sharing, and this art often offers a glimpse of the artist's personal point of view of what is important in her life.
Mildred became a great-grandmother in 1972, and from that point on her cards chronicled the growth and development of her great-grandchildren.
Her skills as a portraitist and illustrator of children's publications are apparent in these cards, but more importantly from a personal perspective, her love for and devotion to these children couldn't be more evident.
The Hetherington Design Dynasty exhibit is entering its final month of display. The last day will be January 7, 2023. Visit now on Tuesday and Sunday afternoons from 1 to 4 p.m., or by special appointment. Contact RHS at 773/881-1675 or ridgehistory@hotmail.com.