The artwork titled “Parade,” painted by Norman Rockwell in 1924, is an oil on canvas piece that exemplifies the Regionalism art movement. This genre painting is part of a private collection.
The artwork captures a moment from a parade, showcasing three figures in a procession-like arrangement. They are dressed in vibrant uniforms; the first two figures appear to be young boys, while the third figure is a larger man. The first boy, marching at the lead, carries a box on a stick, which likely signifies his role or something he is promoting. Behind him, the larger man is clad in formal attire, holding a top hat against his side with a solemn expression and demeanor, suggesting he is perhaps an important figure in the parade. The third figure, another boy in red, follows closely, bearing a staff with a small lamp at the top. The background of the artwork is minimalistic, drawing attention to the characters and their detailed, expressive faces and attire. The interplay of the bright red uniforms and the darker tones of the man’s clothing provides a strong visual contrast, emphasizing the significance of this parade moment. The overall composition and the meticulous details highlight Norman Rockwell’s illustrative style and his ability to capture everyday American life with both realism and narrative flair.
