War and the Eyes of an Artist
Presenting the story and illustrations of a young Marine’s experience in World War II
November 8-11, 2024
Woodstock, Illinois
Free Admission – No Ticket Necessary
Welcome
Our father was an artist and – until his passing in 1981 – we grew up with the awareness of his heroism in World War II. Although he never spoke of actual combat, we knew that his experience of fighting in three battles was horrific. His Purple Heart award, and numerous scars, were proof of his pain, both physically and mentally. We rediscovered his wartime artwork in Mom’s attic among hundreds of paintings and sketches from decades as a book illustrator. Along with artifacts and family knowledge, we reconstructed his story. We feel that it should be presented as a reminder of just one patriot’s sacrifice for our freedom. This exhibition is our first step in sharing his story through words and images.
– The Glaubke Family
Robert F. Glaubke
P.F.C., U.S.M.C.
4th Marine Division
Purple Heart Award
Presidential Unit Citation
Served in WWII, South Pacific:
Roi-Namur
Kwajalain Atoll
Saipan
Northern Mariana Islands
Tinian
Northern Mariana Islands
Son of a WWI Veteran
Here is Bob's Story
The son of a World War I veteran, Bob Glaubke, was a 19 year-old art student from Chicago when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. While in the South Pacific, he encountered numerous horrors, but found solace in sketching and painting his experiences as a combat artist.
Then, he lost his eyesight from exploded shrapnel as his regiment stormed a small Tinian beach. Miraculously, a stateside surgeon arrived and partially saved his vision hours before he was to have his eyes removed.
After recovering in New Caledonia, Bob returned home a hero. Living with a sight impairment, he became a prolific illustrator and teacher at the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts.
Learn More
See the 30-page flip book that illustrates Bob’s life and war experience.
If viewing on a mobile device, press and swipe left on the pages to turn them.
Join us this Veterans Weekend 2024
Experience his story – in person – as Bob’s family will present his illustrations, photos, anecdotes and artifacts, including his Purple Heart
Friday, November 8th:
Opening Evening, 4pm – 8pm
Saturday, November 9th
10am – 6pm
Sunday, November 10th
Noon – 5pm
Monday, November 11
Veterans Day, 10am – 6pm
Old Courthouse Center
On the Woodstock Square
101 N. Johnson Street, First Floor
Woodstock, Illinois
Elevator access is located in the rear of the building on Throop Street.
5 minute walk from the Woodstock Metra Station.
See Train Schedule
