Rockwells #AtoZChallenge

The works of American painter and illustrator Norman Rockwell, who died in 1978, have been a part of my memories for many years.  

Rockwell knew what his life work was to be at an early age, enrolling in art school at age 14. He was born in New York City, later moving to the New York City suburban city of New Rochelle. Eventually, he became an illustrator for the Boy Scouts publication Boys' Life, and for the Saturday Evening Post magazine  He drew for the Saturday Evening Post for some 47 years.  His career ended with the defunct Look magazine, which my mother read when I was growing up.

I don't know how well Rockwell was known outside the United States, or by young people worldwide, but I hope that you still enjoy this post. 

Rockwell lived for a time in Arlington, Vermont and used their residents as models for many of his illustrations.  The Sugar Shack in Arlington has a (free!) Rockwell exhibition in the back of the store, but do try their maple cremees (a rich soft serve ice cream) if you are into dairy products.  They also produce their own maple syrup. I've visited Arlington several times in the past six years and have enjoyed visiting the Sugar Shack for a maple fix.

There is also a museum dedicated to Rockwell's works in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, which I visited in 2024.  In fact, let's start with the entrance to that museum. 

What a beautiful setting.

On the grounds are sculptures by Norman's son Peter Rockwell.

Information about Peter (sorry, it's too small to read),  Peter Rockwell spent much of his adult life in Rome.  He passed away in 2020.  

A wall full of Norman Rockwell magazine covers. 

Some samples of art and photos of the actual townspeople who posed for his pictures.

More photos.
 

Finally, a self portrait.

R day in the Blogging from A to Z Challenge.  My theme:  Beauty of our Land.