American Express

This image portrays a warm, intimate moment between two men who appear to be a couple, embracing each other on what looks like a rustic farm porch. They are dressed in vintage 1930s-style clothing: one in a brown coat and the other in a work shirt and suspenders, reminiscent of rural American attire from that era. The setting hints at a colder season, with a backdrop of wooden buildings, possibly barns, and snow-dusted surroundings. The image captures a tender, genuine connection, subtly conveying LGBTQ+ themes from a time when such expressions were often hidden. The vintage style and muted tones evoke a sense of nostalgia, highlighting both the simplicity and depth of their relationship.

This piece could serve as a tribute to queer history, illustrating a rare and touching representation of LGBTQ+ love in the early 20th century.

This case study series examines the life and work of Midwestern artist Grant Wood. Known for his role in the Regionalist art movement, Wood’s paintings capture the spirit of rural American life with a distinct style inspired by Gothic and Renaissance art. His most iconic works, like American Gothic, reflect a meticulous attention to detail and a flat, decorative approach, showcasing earthy, muted colors—greens, browns, and blues—that echo the landscapes and life of the Midwest. These colors, punctuated occasionally with bright reds or yellows, create a grounded yet nostalgic atmosphere, resonating with the enduring American spirit.

This study is also a tribute to Wood as a queer artist—a truth that he may have kept concealed due to the social and cultural norms of his time. While the term gay didn’t gain mainstream use until the 1960s, queer has since become an inclusive, positive label within the LGBTQ+ community. It embraces a spectrum of identities that defy traditional definitions of sexuality and gender, reflecting the diversity and resilience of those who navigate life outside conventional norms. Reclaiming the term allows us to acknowledge the full breadth of Wood’s identity as part of his legacy.

In exploring Wood’s work, this series imagines what his art might have looked like if he had the freedom to express his authentic self openly, without societal restrictions. It also raises questions about the impact of cultural bias on art preservation—wondering if some pieces that might have reflected same-sex relationships were perhaps destroyed or never created due to the fear of judgment. These case studies honor Grant Wood’s authenticity, celebrating his contributions as a trailblazer in American art and recognizing the need for broader representation in galleries and museums today.

Please note: Slight size variations of +/- 1/8" (3.2mm) may occur due to the production process.