American Express

This captivating vintage-style artwork portrays a gay couple seated in a luxurious 1930 Packard 745 Deluxe Eight Convertible Coupe along the banks of the Mississippi River in Eastern Iowa. Dressed in sharp, period-accurate three-piece suits, the two men exude charm and sophistication as they share a quiet, intimate moment. One man, with neatly combed blonde hair, gazes warmly at his partner, while the other, with a composed and thoughtful expression, looks ahead as he steers the classic car. The backdrop features a serene river, softly illuminated by vintage streetlamps, stretching across the water, enhancing the nostalgic, romantic atmosphere of the scene.

Set in the 1930s, this artwork beautifully blends themes of love, history, and Americana, highlighting the resilience and authenticity of LGBTQ+ relationships during a challenging era. The meticulously detailed Packard Coupe, with its sleek design and leather interior, symbolizes the elegance and ambition of the time, making it a stunning centerpiece. This painting is ideal for collectors and advocates of inclusivity, offering a powerful tribute to the enduring beauty of love and the timeless allure of vintage design. It stands as a heartfelt reminder that love, in all its forms, transcends time and barriers.

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.