American Express

This stunning vintage-style artwork beautifully portrays an African-American gay couple in the 1930s, standing along the banks of the Mississippi River in Eastern Iowa. Dressed in impeccably tailored suits of the era, the couple exudes confidence and elegance, their poses relaxed yet intentional. One man leans against the gleaming 1930 Packard 745 Deluxe Eight Convertible Coupe, while his partner, standing beside him, engages in a tender moment of connection, their gaze locked as if sharing an unspoken bond. The iconic bridge stretching across the river in the background adds depth and historical context, creating a timeless representation of love and resilience.

The rich autumnal palette, with fallen leaves and the warm glow of the evening light, enhances the nostalgic and romantic mood of the scene. The 1930 Packard, with its polished curves and detailed craftsmanship, symbolizes ambition and sophistication, anchoring the image in the golden age of American automotive design. This painting is a celebration of LGBTQ+ love, a rare yet profound acknowledgment of such relationships in a time of societal challenges. Perfect for those who appreciate inclusivity, historical storytelling, and artistic beauty, it stands as a testament to love’s enduring power across 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.