When we think of clowns, it is not odd to expect a humorous, witty, and playful manner to emerge. Clowns, for centuries, have brought joy to people, lifted spirits, and entertained many; however, behind a clown is a person – a person who might not always feel as playful as the role they play. Checkers, illustrated by Norman Rockwell, details this narrative beautifully and with an illuminating colour scheme.

The image focuses on a clown and his friends huddled around a game of checkers. In the painting, we can notice a dog lying right near the clown, looking a bit low. We can take this as a representation of the clown’s mood, although he looks quite occupied with his friends in their match of cheese. However, Rockwell created this piece out of his love for the circus, clowns, and the joy they bring to him and many others.

What adds a genuine touch is Rockwell’s ability to sympathize with the clown and recognize that although they are there to lift everyone else’s mood, who might lift their spirits? The importance of community is emphasised hugely in this piece, although a simple act of a board game might not be as entertaining as going to the circus and seeing a clown. Entertainment and bliss look very different for various individuals, and for this clown, the company of simplicity, friends, and a moment to catch his breath might just be enough.

Image Credits: Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Contributing Writer: Suliana Beraki