Fondly Do We Remember 1955

Norman Rockwell made this image, Fondly Do We Remember, and what strikes me is his touch, his light, was kind of old-fashioned, even when he was alive. Look at how Rockwell builds up the scene with thin layers and gentle glazes, kind of like a watercolor painter might. I see a narrative unfolding, and I just wanna sink into that sunny afternoon with this couple as they're sharing old love letters, so sweet. Everything is so delicate. From the dogs to the leaves scattered on the ground. This feels like a memory itself, softened by time, and Rockwell’s light touch makes it feel all the more tender. Rockwell reminds me a bit of Edward Hopper. There is a certain sentimentality to both but it's Hopper's light and colour that give his painting that touch of reality. I can almost feel the autumn breeze rustling those leaves.