While cleaning off some bookshelves today, I found a booklet I had not seen in ages. It is a compilation of the art of Norman Rockwell found in The Saturday Evening Post Magazines of the 30's-40's and 50's. The foreward says:
"This album would not have been possible without the cooperation and generosity of many great corporations for whom Norman Rockwell painted. He charmed and impressed the executives of the nation's most prestigious boardrooms, and came away with enviable assignments as their illustrator. Astutely, he saw this as an important way to bring his art to the masses."
Anyone who grew up in the 30's to the 50's knows who Rockwell was.His art graced the pages of not only the Post, but many periodicals. According to this article:
"Other artists have covered the same ground, but nobody else in American illustration - or in American art - has held the mirror of the people's yearnings up to their accomplishments so closely as Norman Rockwell."
Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing some of his pieces with you. I was all set to start with another, but after reading Fran's post at Ronni's Elder Storytelling Place today, I knew I had to start with this one, a quintessential look at young love in the 50's. Go and read Fran's story and see if you don't agree!
19 comments:
Yes I do remember these Norman Rockwell pictures. They are a true slice of a bygone era in Americana.
Thanks for posting them.
I love Rockwell's art....he had the ability to capture a feeling in his paintings.
Rockwell's work is wonderful! I did not grow up seeing his work on a regular basis, but from all I've seen over the years, he seems to have been able to capture moments in time. He mastered facial expressions and the "feel" of the moment.
I look forward to the others you will share.
Thanks so much for giving me a plug--and showing this truly sweet photo. At the library book sale a few months back I also bought a Norman Rockwell book. I love his work, too. I remember giving my kid's docs and dentists framed photos when the kids were little and I spent so much time there.
I loved Norman Rockwell, too. Looking forward to future posts.
I always loved Norman Rockwell's illustrations...They were so filled with "American" Images...Unages we all knew, instantly! THat is quite a feat when you consider this country is and always was such a melting pot. A wonderful Chronicular(?) Of Life during those years...! Thanks Judy...it is great to see this again. I look forward to more.
the expressions on the faces he painted...priceless!
I was a bit after his time, but my father liked Rockwell, so i was very familiar with the images... I hope you and your husband are well--I've been busy and not been around much.
Wonderful!! Can't wait to see more.
I adore Rockwell's art, and this is one of my favorites. I truly think I should have grown up in his time. Off to read your friend now!
Hi Judy, this will make a great series. Can't wait to read your posts.
I remember them too. I do truly love Rockwell's art, his characters are often so beguiling.
I think his work used to be featured on cover of Life magazine.Captures everyday life for sure.
I love Norman Rockwell! He was one of my inspirations for becoming a graphic designer. Since I'm no illustrator I wanted to have the opportunity to work with the talented artists who'se work inspires me.
I was born in 1946. I remember Norman Rockwell from the 50's. I loved his work!
Remember them well and fondly.
A perfect picture for that story. I have a lot of Norman Rockwell stuff.
I will add a post-script to this. Rockwell, tho a marvelous and captivating artist, was not wholely original. He ripped off J.C. Leyendecker, and their rivalry is documented. While I don't begrudge him his amazing success... I feel sorry for Leyendecker, an artist who gets lost in fanfare over Rockwell.
The difference in their art is obvious... Rockwell is muddier, Leyendecker is more graceful. Both brilliant artists.
I can't wait to see what favorites you share. :)
~S :)
Oh yes! I totally love Rockwell. What I especially love are the tiny details he includes way off in the background sometimes. Cute post idea, Judy!
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