Dear Mr. Rockwell,
I really miss you -especially at Christmas. I always looked forward to what you’d come up with for the cover of Saturday Evening Post. The holidays were one of your favorite subjects. History calls you the artist that focused on the ‘everyday man.’
I really miss you -especially at Christmas. I always looked forward to what you’d come up with for the cover of Saturday Evening Post. The holidays were one of your favorite subjects. History calls you the artist that focused on the ‘everyday man.’
As I was growing up, I used to collect the covers of Post. I’d study your illustration and stylization of characters. There was so much humor, but what really made you stand out was your daring. There was an edge to absurd when dealing with social issues.
For instance your painting about civil rights and forced integration of the schools: A little girl walks to her first day of school surrounded by Federal Marshals to protect her. A tomato splatters on the wall behind her. You entitled it ’The problem we all live with.’ That was such a powerful work.
As my education unfolded, I was introduced to so many artist, but your lesson plan always stayed close to the core of my art. You see, you gave me the understanding that art isn’t just pretty picture. Whether intentional of not, it has an underlying message. It doesn’t have to be a major revelation or even a social commentary. It can be a simple observation on the beauty of our world. But, -when it does say something that touches the heart, there‘s nothing better. In truth, that message is the artist’s signature.
I did the painting of 'Santa with a cell phone' as last years Christmas Card. It was also a tribute to you. The subject of today’s ‘cell phone mentality and connecting to the disconnection’ is just the sort of thing you’d jump on with a fury. 
You made us laugh, cry and examine our hearts. Where ever you are, Mr. Rockwell, thank you and Merry Christmas.
Vikki
The Red Chair Gallery
In the late 80’s I did a television show that did a tribute to Norman Rockwell. My artwork, style and proficiency as an artist had to be examined and approved by the Norman Rockwell Society before I could do the project. When my producer told me they had actually chosen me amongst several artist to emulate Norman’s style for the show- it was one of the greatest honors I ever received.
Do you remember Norman Rockwell or are you familiar with his work?
My Painting ‘Santa with cell phone’ is 12”x16” acrylic on unstretched canvas. I reserve all copyrights to my art, (No business or resale allowed.)
Please visit The Red Chair Gallery.
(All works shown are taken from Norman Rockwell online collections for public display ) Norman Rockwell: 1894-1978
