The Rochester Museum of Fine Arts is pleased to announce the unveiling of an original draft animation cel (short for celluloid) from The Simpsons, tv’s longest-running animated comedy.

According to RMFA co-founder Amy Regan, the piece was gifted by an anonymous donor that was inspired by the organization’s recent acquisition of several other animation cels from The Brave Little Toaster.

“We started acquiring animation cels and sketches several months ago. This particular patron enjoys animation and wanted us to have this special piece from The Simpsons,” said Regan. “It goes without saying, The Simpsons is one of the most beloved and influential cartoons in tv history. It’s iconic.”

Regan says that the donation, which depicts a loose sketch of Homer Simpson, has been professionally framed and will be included in the museum’s permanent collection going forward. A reception celebrating the acquisition is scheduled for September 30th.

“Although the piece will be on display for years to come, we wanted to give our friends and patrons a chance to celebrate this piece of TV history,” said Regan. “The Homer sketch, along with The Brave Little Toaster cels, are just a part of what is becoming a robust selection of animation in our collection.”

Regan teases that the RMFA has more animation-related acquisitions to announce in the next few months.

“We don’t want to give it all away at once,” Regan continued. “However, we think Spiderman fans everywhere will be pleased with an announcement we plan to make in the near future. Stay tuned!”

The reception celebrating the Homer Simpson piece is scheduled for Friday, September 30th from 6-8pm. The public is encouraged to attend.

The RMFA is located within the James W. Foley Memorial Community Center at 150 Wakefield Street, Rochester, NH, behind Spaulding High School. Suite 135 is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm. Visit www.rochestermfa.org to learn more.

The museum is sponsored by the City of Rochester, Rochester Main Street, Waterstone Properties Group, Bernier Insurance, Meredeth Village Savings Bank, MacEdge, Lenharth Systems, and the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce.