Framingham State To Celebrate the WWII Artwork of Edward Brodney

Framingham State To Celebrate the WWII Artwork of Edward Brodney

Oct 12, 2022

Framingham State University is hosting a special event on Saturday, October 15, 2022 featuring selected artwork of Edward Brodney, an artist who documented daily life for soldiers in the South Pacific during World War II.

Framingham State University holds the entire collection of WWII works of Brodney, thanks to a recent donation by his family. Brodney, whose murals currently hang in the Massachusetts State House and Newton Town Hall, was profiled by major news outlets, including the New York Times, following his death in 2002.

The event on October 15th will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. in the McCarthy Center Forum, and will raise money benefiting the Framingham State Student Veterans' Scholarship Fund. There is a suggested donation of $25 to those who attend. Brodney's daughter Jeanne will be on hand to speak about her father and the importance of his work.

"We are honored and excited to share the art collection of Mr. Brodney with the community," says FSU President Nancy Niemi. "The collection features many moving and beautiful pieces that hold significant historical value. This event is a great chance to see them on display, while raising money to support our student veterans."

To register for the event, click here.

About the Artist:

Boston native, Edward Brodney, was the first Newton resident drafted into World War II. Initially a medic, he served in the South Pacific from 1942 - 1944. He earned several promotions and was assigned to public relations. His artwork accompanied the articles being sent to hometown newspapers. His World War II paintings depicted soldiers in their everyday activities: Repairing planes, carrying supplies, enjoying days off, Air Force Aces and preparing for battle.

Returning home from war, Brodney opened an art and estate gallery in Boston and ran it for thirty years. At the age of 65, he retired to his love of painting. Subjects include scenes of Boston, seascape, still life, and polo matches. Two of his earlier works, murals commissioned by the WPA, are in the State House in Boston.

About Framingham State University

Framingham State University was founded in 1839 as the nation’s first public university for the education of teachers. Since that time, it has evolved into a vibrant, comprehensive liberal arts institution offering small, personalized classes on a beautiful New England campus. Today, the University enrolls more than 6,000 students with 58 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the arts, humanities, sciences, social sciences and professional fields. As a State College and University (SCU), Framingham State prides itself on quality academic programs, affordability, and commitment to access for all qualified students.