Norman Rockwell

1894-1978

American (North American) (New York(New York, United States) - Stockbridge(Berkshire, Massachusetts, United States))

Rockwell's name has become synonymous with American illustration. From 1916 to 1963, he created hundreds of covers for "The Saturday Evening Post," many of which have become icons of American pop culture. He was also much in demand as an illustrator of corporate calendars. His method of composition for the original oil paintings that were the basis of the printed covers, was to make a loose sketch of the idea, then gather costumes, models, and props, make individual drawings of the parts, and then combine them into the final detailed work. Although his work had a great influence on creating an image of middle-class, conservative America, his work for "Look" magazine in the 1960's pursued subjects of that conflict-ridden decade, such as segregation. Throughout his long career, his work provides an excellent look into America's changing consciousness in the 20th century. Comment on works: genre