“Running with Pie” is an artwork created by Norman Rockwell in 1928, exemplifying the Regionalism art movement, which focused on realistic scenes of rural and small-town America. This particular artwork is a genre painting, which means it depicts a scene from everyday life, capturing a moment that is easily relatable to the viewer.
The artwork presents a humorous scene, rendered with lively expressiveness characteristic of Rockwell’s style. The central figure is a man who appears to be in the throes of a comical yet calamitous rush, perhaps having stolen a piece of pie, given his exaggerated and mischievous facial expression. His mouth is agape, eyes wide with exhilaration or alarm, and cheeks puffed, as he darts forward. His attire is that of a classic, perhaps slightly disheveled, rural American, with a vest, work shirt, trousers, and a bow tie, along with a hat jauntily tipped on his head, emphasising the swift motion captured.
Adding to the narrative, a dog is portrayed in mid-chase behind the man, sharing in the dynamic movement and urgency. The dog’s ears and tail are energetically positioned to suggest motion. In the background, a simple, bold red circle draws the viewer’s focus back to the primary action, underscoring the dramatic and comedic effect of the piece. The man’s outstretched arm balances a pie, highlighting the seemingly precarious fate of the dessert, which adds to the tension and humor of the composition. Overall, the artwork is imbued with vitality and a sense of narrative that speaks to the viewer’s sense of adventure and mischief.