American Express

This elegant vintage-style artwork depicts a gay couple seated in a luxurious 1930 Packard 745 Deluxe Eight Convertible Coupe, enjoying a quiet, moonlit moment along the Mississippi River in Eastern Iowa. Dressed in impeccably tailored 1930s suits, the couple exudes sophistication and warmth as they share an intimate connection. One man rests his hand affectionately on his partner’s shoulder while gazing into his eyes, conveying their deep bond and quiet confidence. The soft glow of a streetlamp and the shimmering reflection of the iconic bridge in the river create a serene and nostalgic ambiance, perfectly capturing the timeless beauty of the scene.

Set against the tranquil riverside under the moonlight, this painting beautifully blends themes of love, history, and Americana. The gleaming Packard Convertible Coupe, with its polished curves and intricate detailing, anchors the piece in the elegance and ambition of the era. This artwork pays tribute to the resilience of LGBTQ+ relationships during a time when they were often unacknowledged, celebrating love that transcends societal norms. Ideal for collectors and admirers of vintage Americana, LGBTQ+ history, and classic automotive design, this piece is a poignant reminder of the enduring beauty of connection and authenticity.

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.