Thomas Hart Benton (1889-1975) was an American painter and muralist associated with the Regionalist art movement of the 1930s and 1940s. He was born in Neosho, Missouri, and grew up in a family that valued politics and education. Benton's father was a politician, and his great-uncle was a U.S. senator.
Benton studied art in Chicago and Paris before settling in New York in 1912. He became known for his realistic depictions of rural America, often depicting scenes of everyday life in the Midwest. His paintings often featured bold colors and dramatic contrasts, and his style was heavily influenced by the works of Diego Rivera, a Mexican muralist.
In addition to his paintings, Benton was also a prolific muralist, creating large-scale works for public buildings and private clients. His murals often depicted historical or allegorical scenes, and he frequently used his art to comment on social and political issues of the time.
Benton's work fell out of favor in the postwar era, as abstract art became more popular, but he continued to paint and exhibit until his death in 1975. Today, his work can be seen in museums and galleries across the United States, and he is remembered as one of the leading figures of the Regionalist movement.
Mounted to archival quality paper.
Verso is blank.
Measures 7 x 9.2.
Printed circa 1950-1960s.