American Express

This framed artwork portrays two young wrestlers in a lighthearted and competitive pose, locked in a moment of connection as they smile at each other. They are wearing vintage singlets—one with green trim and the other in burgundy with white accents—emphasizing the mid-20th-century athletic aesthetic. Their expressions exude a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, capturing both the physical and social dynamics of the sport.

The background is simple yet dynamic, featuring a stylized wrestling mat with curved, decorative lines in soft greens and earthy tones, adding depth and focus to the composition. The interplay of colors, clean lines, and stylized forms reflects the influence of Grant Wood. Known for his Regionalist style, Wood’s work often idealized American rural life with a warm, nostalgic palette and meticulous attention to detail.

This artwork similarly romanticizes Americana, celebrating small-town sports culture and the youthful spirit of competition. The scene’s symmetry and polished aesthetic blend realism with an artistic reimagining, making it feel timeless while evoking themes of unity, pride, and resilience.

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.