The painting depicts the dawn of the "New Frontier" in 1961, a time of
high expectations for America as Alan Shepherd led the nation in the space race. The
scene takes place at a restaurant where a newlywed couple is showing off their wedding
ring to a group of young onlookers. Another couple, who have been married for a while,
are just entering the establishment.
The setting is filled with nostalgia and references to popular culture of
the era. The jukebox is playing hit songs such as "Wonderland by Night" and "Will you
love me tomorrow?" by the Shirelles. The year 1961 was still considered part of the
1950s, with popular music groups like the Marvelettes singing "Please Mr. Postman."
The atmosphere is one of carefree youth and innocence, with no hint of
the political and social upheaval that was to come in the following decade. The cost of
living was relatively low, with minimum wage at $1.25 per hour, gas at $0.27 per gallon,
and a new Impala costing less than $3000.00.
The artist adds personal notes to the painting, reminiscing about their
own experiences of getting married in 1961 and the nostalgia associated with it. They
recall their own youthful experiences, including the cost of dining out and the cars of
the era. They also mention a live bullfrog that was hung from their mirror on their
wedding day, and the house across the street that reminded them of Mickey Mouse's house
at Disney World.
Overall, the painting is a nostalgic and sentimental look back at a
simpler time in American history, captured through the lens of the artist's personal
experiences and memories. It highlights the cultural and social elements of the era, and
the carefree spirit of youth in a time before the major societal changes of the following
decade.
Description by the Artist
Watch this video presentation by the artist describing the painting process, the
research, and the hidden trivia in the painting.
The original painting is 36x24" on masonite panel, completed in 1995.
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