American Express

The image features an Asian-American man descending a wooden staircase while holding a lit lantern. He is dressed in a white, snug-fitting long-sleeved onesie, which has a classic vintage design, complete with buttons at the chest. His bare feet are carefully stepping onto a woven rug at the base of the stairs, emphasizing a sense of intimacy and warmth within the space.

The setting is a rustic interior, with warm lighting from the lantern illuminating the wooden staircase, walls, and floor. To the left, a small wooden side table holds a lit candle in a simple holder, complementing the lantern's light and creating a harmonious glow. The staircase railing features carved wooden spindles, adding texture and authenticity to the room’s rural Americana aesthetic. A picture frame hangs on the wall to the right, subtly contributing to the lived-in feeling of the space.

The man's expression appears thoughtful and focused as he gazes slightly downward, suggesting caution or reflection as he moves through the scene. The interplay of light and shadow highlights his features and the textures of the room, creating a dramatic yet serene atmosphere.

This composition, inspired by Grant Wood’s "Midnight Alarm," blends realism with a narrative quality, evoking a moment of quiet mystery or urgency. The inclusion of an Asian-American subject adds cultural depth and diversity to this homage, expanding the context of rural life in early 20th-century Americana.

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.