Though he himself was an only child, Schulz recognized the potential for drama and humor inherent in sibling relationships, which are among the most influential and enduring associations in our lives. Over the years Peanuts portrayed many familial antics, including bossy older sisters, embarrassment caused by a brother’s inept kite flying or chronic blanket toting, and the petty bickering that can be a staple of brother/sister interactions. However, Schulz’s comic siblings were also capable of tenderhearted softness—help with homework, sage advice, comfort, and understanding.  In addition to revisiting their own childhoods through original Peanuts comic strips, visitors will see selected excerpts of sibling interactions from the Peanuts animated television specials.

The parallel worlds of fine art and commercial art---including advertising, film, photography, and comic strips---came together in the early 1960s in the work of such Pop artists as Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol. Since then, popular culture and mass media have been a rich source from which modern and contemporary artists draw inspiration for their work. Pop'd from the Panel seeks to explore the influence comic strips and cartoon art has had on the work of such noted artists as Enrique Chagoya, Christo, Ron English, Llyn Foulkes, Gottfried Helnwein, Sherrie Levine, Roy Lichtenstein, Richard Pettibone, Mel Ramos, Wayne Thiebaud. Co-curated by Michael Schwager, Sonoma State University Gallery Director and Professor of Art History, the exhibition will feature 29 two- and three-dimensional works of art.

Also on display is Schulz on Schulz, featuring the work of Lindsey Schulz, granddaughter of Charles M. Schulz. Ms. Schulz explores the relationship of the world to digital media through her grandfather's artwork.