American Express

This framed artwork portrays an African-American man descending a staircase while holding an oil lantern, lighting a warm glow on the scene. He is dressed in a white, long-sleeved, ribbed onesie, evoking a vintage or historical atmosphere. His bare feet tread carefully on the polished wooden steps, and his posture and expression suggest attentiveness or caution as he gazes toward the source of the light or sound.

The setting is a rustic, early 20th-century interior, with details reflecting rural life's simplicity and warmth. The wooden staircase has a greenish tint, contrasting with the warm glow of the lantern. To the left of the staircase, a small wooden side table holds another lit candle in a holder, further emphasizing the theme of illumination in darkness. The walls are textured and adorned with simple framed pictures, adding to the authenticity of the setting.

The interplay of light and shadow creates a dramatic yet intimate mood, highlighting the textures of the man's outfit, the wooden elements of the room, and the glow of the lantern. The overall composition pays homage to Grant Wood's attention to detail and his focus on rural Americana, while featuring an African-American subject, adding depth and inclusivity to the narrative. The title "Midnight Alarm" suggests a moment of urgency or mystery, possibly tied to a sudden, unexpected event in the quiet hours of the night.

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.