The extraordinary oeuvre of Norman Rockwell deserves a second look, as his work reflects many of the concerns we have today: The threat of war, tough economic times, cultural, social and racial divides, and reveals the true genius of one of the most extraordinary American artists of his time. Looking at Rockwell’s extensive collection of drawings, paintings and sketches shows his compositional brilliance, his acuity as a story teller and his celebrated ability to bring people to life through paint, paper and canvas.
The Early Years Born Norman Percevel Rockwell in New York City in 1894, Rockwell had an innate artistic talent. By the age of 14, all he wanted was to be an artist. At 16, his focus was so intent on his art, that he dropped out of high school and enrolled at the National Academy of Design. He later transferred to the prestigious Art Students League of New York where he studied with Thomas Fogarty for illustration and George Bridgman for anatomy. Fogarty’s instruction also helped Rockwell gain his first commercial commissions. Upon graduating, Rockwell began a life-long association with Boys’ Life, the national magazine of the Scouts of America (BSA). By 1916, newly married to his first wife, Irene O’Connor, Rockwell painted his first cover for The Saturday Evening Post, “Boy with Baby Carriage,” which was the start of a 47-year relationship with the popular American magazine.