Freedom From Want is a well-known painting by Norman Rockwell, completed in 1943. It is part of a series named the Four Freedoms, which represent the essential freedoms for humanity. The painting has become an iconic image of Thanksgiving and reflects traditional American values, particularly the value of family. It portrays a large family gathered around a table filled with food, sharing laughter and warmth.
Rockwell created Freedom From Want in a series of composites, using various models at different times for him to paint them into the final composite image. The painting is located today at Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, where it serves as one of his most famous works.
The scene depicted shows people from various age groups who are smiling broadly while they share thanks for what they have on their table on this particular day. The composition shows symmetry between characters and emphasizes our understanding that this moment represents harmony and unity in human society. This artwork reminds us how essential it is to share moments with our loved ones while appreciating what we have together as humans.
Furthermore, Rockwell’s Freedom From Want symbolizes America as being abundant during World War II with its unstoppable war machinery—together representing plentiful harvests alongside industrial might—ultimately making it possible to enjoy such occasions like Thanksgiving.
