National Museum of American Illustration (NMAI)

The National Museum of American Illustration (NMAI) in Newport, USA, is housed in the former Vernon Court mansion, a stately American Renaissance building designed in the style of a French chateau. The museum boasts the world’s largest collection of illustrated masterpieces, featuring over 150 artists, including Norman Rockwell, NC Wyeth, Maxfield Parrish, and Howard Pyle. The illustrations, created for books and other print media, offer a vivid glimpse into American society, reflecting social changes, attitudes, and behaviors. The mansion’s elegant rooms, such as the ballroom and marble hall, are now filled with these artworks, complemented by period furnishings and decorative arts. Visitors can explore this immersive experience through self-guided or guided tours, providing context and a deeper understanding of the era when books and magazines were the primary form of entertainment.