Mattatuck Museum's 'About Face' Explores 250 Years of American Portraiture

From April 26 to August 16, 2026, the Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury, Connecticut, will host 'About Face: 250 Years of American Portraits' in honor of the United States' semiquincentennial. This exhibition explores American history through the lens of portraiture, highlighting how artists have utilized this medium to define identity, engage with citizenship, and convey a sense of belonging. The collection includes pieces that depict both crafted identities linked to social status and authority, as well as modern representations emphasizing authenticity and visibility. The exhibition aspires to inspire viewers to recognize their own place within the narrative of America.