American Express

This artwork portrays an older queer couple sharing a tender moment by a campfire in a rustic, rural setting. The two men are dressed in vintage workwear, with rolled-up overalls and sturdy boots, exuding a sense of rugged familiarity with the outdoors. One man sits on a log, gently resting his hand on the other’s head, conveying warmth and affection. The other man leans into his partner, eyes closed in contentment, creating an intimate, peaceful scene.

In the background, a canvas tent and cornfield set the scene, evoking the simplicity of a bygone era. The muted, earthy tones of the setting and the glow of the campfire add a nostalgic, cozy ambiance, highlighting the depth of their connection. This image beautifully captures the enduring love between the two, celebrating queer relationships with a sense of authenticity and resilience often overlooked in historical narratives.

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.