There must be tenths of adjectives to describe the art of the late Norman Rockwell. In fact, many people can claim having seen his illustrations on the cover of New York’s Saturday Evening Post. However, one thing is for sure, Rockwell’s illustrations will take you by surprise because beyond the expressions of American culture, his ouvre is simply extraordinary, socially engaging and thoughtful.
Homestead MediaJive had the opportunity to attend the media conference and preliminary tour including The Saturday Evening Post collection, many known pieces and even the lesser advertised works as well. Often, we perceive Norman Rockwell as an Americana illustrator, an entertaining artist for his naïve interpretation of life, yet his art is that and more. This exhibition demonstrates that he also used his art to comment on America’s racial divisions and invites his audience to civic engagement in a racially tense society in an era of turmoil and patriotic awareness, respectively. One impressive painting is Murder in Mississippi, a painting that will lure you in to experience what life was like in the South just a little over three decades ago. You will be amazed by its theme, you will be chilled by its darkness and feel fear for the main subject depicted. The story behind it will haunt you for days.
For this, Norman Rockwell’s ouvre, is not just entertaining but a frank and poignant American tale.
Rockwell, the multifaceted artist, promises a wonderful ride were you will smile, reminisce and stare in awe for every careful and thoughtful stroke on every single canvas.
Comments
Very interesting article about the late Rockwell. I remember those Saturday Post cover illustrations. My father was subscribed to the magazine while we lived in Lima, Perú.
The article is well written and describes the artistic direction of the Rockwell very accurately. I had never seen his painting "Murder in Missisippi", I had no idea that Rockwell had a feeling for the racial struggles of the time.
Another excellent article from The Examiner that illustrates an interesting aspect of the American culture!
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