The Honeymoon’s Over 1949

Gil Elvgren made this image, The Honeymoon’s Over, with oil paint, and it looks like he wasn't afraid of a little realism. The color palette is soft, almost pastel, which makes the image feel like a daydream, or maybe a memory. Look how Elvgren handles the surface. He doesn't hide the brushstrokes; you can see how the paint is layered, how he's built up the forms. And the way he captures the texture of her negligee is just amazing—so sheer, so delicate. The clock on the other hand is sturdy, strong. Is it a contrast or are the two things working together? I can't decide. It makes me think of Norman Rockwell, someone who also knew how to tell a story with a single image, but with a wink. It is up to you to come to your own conclusions, that is what art is all about.