Over there 1917

This is Norman Rockwell’s cover illustration for the sheet music of “Over There.” Rockwell lays down a very specific palette and consistent brushwork; each mark is thoughtfully placed, carefully considered, and together, they build this band of brothers. The colors are muted, fitting the somber nature of the subject, but there’s still a sense of hope and exuberance in their singing faces. Look at the way he paints the texture of the uniforms, the subtle variations in the fabric, and the way the light catches on their faces. His method is about building up layers of thin washes of paint to create depth and dimension. See how he indicates the shadow under the hat brim of the figures on the left. It’s soft and feathered in one place, and more boldy opaque in others. Rockwell’s style here shares something with his contemporary J.C. Leyendecker, who also worked in illustration. Like Leyendecker, Rockwell's technique relies on observation and understanding of light and shadow to make a piece that is both charming and emotive.