Who was Grant Wood and what is he most known for?

Grant Wood was an American artist, recognized as a key figure of the Regionalism movement. He is primarily celebrated for his paintings that captured the essence of rural life in the American Midwest. His most iconic work, the 1930 painting *American Gothic*, has become a significant piece of early 20th-century American art.

When and where was Grant Wood born?

Grant Wood was born on February 13, 1891, in a rural area near Anamosa, Iowa, located approximately four miles east of the town.

What was Grant Wood's full birth name?

Grant Wood's full birth name was Grant DeVolson Wood.

What family event led to Grant Wood's move to Cedar Rapids?

Following the death of his father, Francis Maryville Wood, in 1901, Grant Wood's mother, Hattie DeEtte Wood, relocated the family to Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Where did Grant Wood pursue his formal art education?

Grant Wood began his art education at The Handicraft Guild in Minneapolis in 1910, an institution led entirely by women. Subsequently, he attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago from 1913 to 1916.

Besides painting, what other artistic or craft skills did Grant Wood possess?

Grant Wood was also skilled as a silversmith. Additionally, during his career, he experimented with woodworking and metalworking techniques.

How did Grant Wood contribute artistically during World War I?

During World War I, Grant Wood served in the United States Army. In his role as an artist, he was tasked with designing camouflage scenes and creating other forms of art for the war effort.

What was Grant Wood's professional role in Cedar Rapids' education system?

From 1919 to 1925, Grant Wood worked as an art instructor for junior high school students within the Cedar Rapids public school system. This employment provided him with a stable income.

How did Grant Wood's teaching position benefit his artistic development?

The seasonal nature of his teaching job allowed Grant Wood the flexibility to travel to Europe during the summers to study art. He even took a year-long leave of absence in 1923-1924 specifically for extended study in Europe.

Describe Grant Wood's studio space in Cedar Rapids.

Between 1924 and 1935, Grant Wood resided with his mother in Cedar Rapids. He converted the hayloft of a carriage house into his personal art studio, which he referred to as '5 Turner Alley'.

Which European art styles and artists influenced Grant Wood?

During his multiple trips to Europe between 1922 and 1928, Grant Wood studied various painting styles, including Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. He was particularly inspired by the precise technique and clarity found in the works of the 15th-century Flemish painter Jan van Eyck.

What was the purpose of Grant Wood's 1928 trip to Munich?

In 1928, Grant Wood traveled to Munich, Germany, primarily to oversee the production of stained glass windows that he had designed for the Veterans Memorial Building located in Cedar Rapids.

What art initiative did Grant Wood help establish in 1932?

In 1932, Grant Wood was instrumental in founding the Stone City Art Colony near his hometown. This colony was created to offer support to artists during the economic hardships of the Great Depression.

What artistic movement is Grant Wood most closely associated with?

Grant Wood is most famously associated with the American art movement known as Regionalism. This movement emphasized figurative painting and celebrated rural American themes, particularly from the Midwest, as a counterpoint to European artistic trends like abstraction.

How did Grant Wood support and influence other Regionalist artists?

Grant Wood actively encouraged artists like John Steuart Curry and Thomas Hart Benton to embrace the Midwest as subject matter. He also assisted them in securing teaching positions at educational institutions in Wisconsin and Missouri, respectively.

What role did Associated American Artists play in Grant Wood's career?

Associated American Artists, a New York-based organization, played a significant role in marketing and distributing the works of Grant Wood, along with other prominent Regionalist artists such as Thomas Hart Benton and John Steuart Curry, for many years.

What is Grant Wood's most renowned painting?

Grant Wood's most famous and widely recognized painting is *American Gothic*, completed in 1930.

Why is *American Gothic* considered such a significant work in American art history?

*American Gothic* is regarded as one of the most famous paintings in American art and has achieved iconic status, comparable to globally recognized masterpieces like the Mona Lisa or The Scream. Its widespread recognition has made it a staple of American cultural imagery.

When and where was *American Gothic* first displayed, and how was it received?

The painting *American Gothic* was first exhibited in 1930 at the Art Institute of Chicago, where it is currently housed. Its debut was met with immediate national attention, earning Wood a $300 prize and widespread media coverage.

What were some early critical interpretations of *American Gothic*?

Initially, some art critics, including Gertrude Stein and Christopher Morley, interpreted *American Gothic* as a satirical commentary on the perceived narrow-mindedness and repression of rural American life. This interpretation aligned with contemporary literary works that offered critical views of the American heartland.

How did the cultural context of the Great Depression influence the perception of *American Gothic*?

As the Great Depression unfolded, the interpretation of *American Gothic* shifted. It began to be seen less as a critique and more as a symbol of the enduring strength, resilience, and steadfast pioneer spirit of the American people.

What specific elements in Eldon, Iowa, inspired *American Gothic*?

The inspiration for *American Gothic* came from a modest cottage in Eldon, Iowa, built in the Gothic Revival architectural style. A distinctive pointed arch window on the upper level of this house particularly caught Wood's eye and contributed to the painting's title and setting.

Who were the models for the figures depicted in *American Gothic*?

The figures in *American Gothic* were based on real individuals. The farmer was modeled by Wood's dentist, Dr. Byron McKeeby, and the woman, depicted as his spinster daughter, was modeled by Wood's sister, Nan Wood Graham.

What symbolic meanings are conveyed through the details in *American Gothic*?

The painting incorporates symbolic elements: the farmer's pitchfork represents hard work and labor, while the woman's attire, including a cameo brooch and apron, evokes traditional 19th-century Americana, reflecting established gender roles and cultural heritage.

What artistic traditions influenced the composition and technique of *American Gothic*?

The compositional structure and meticulous detail in *American Gothic* were significantly influenced by Grant Wood's study of Northern Renaissance paintings, which he encountered during his travels in Europe.

In what artistic capacity did Grant Wood participate in the production of the film *The Long Voyage Home*?

In 1940, Grant Wood was one of nine prominent American artists commissioned to create artwork related to the film *The Long Voyage Home*. His role involved documenting and interpreting dramatic scenes and characters from the cinematic adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's plays.

What information is provided about Grant Wood's marriage?

Grant Wood was married to Sara Sherman Maxon from 1935 to 1938. According to the text, friends of Wood considered this marriage to be detrimental to him.

What does the source text reveal about Grant Wood's sexual orientation and related challenges?

The text states that Grant Wood was a closeted homosexual. It mentions an unsuccessful attempt by a colleague, Lester Longman, to have him dismissed from his university position based on alleged moral grounds and his advocacy for Regionalism. Critic Janet Maslin is quoted noting that Wood's friends were aware of his homosexuality.

Did Grant Wood have any involvement with Freemasonry?

Yes, Grant Wood was a member of Mount Hermon Lodge #263 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, from 1921 to 1924. He was initiated into the third Degree of Master Mason and subsequently painted *The First Three Degrees of Freemasonry* in 1921. His membership was suspended in March 1924 due to unpaid dues.

When and from what cause did Grant Wood pass away?

Grant Wood died on February 12, 1942, at the university hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. The cause of his death was pancreatic cancer, occurring just one day before his 51st birthday.

Where is Grant Wood interred?

Grant Wood is buried in Riverside Cemetery, located in Anamosa, Iowa.

What happened to Grant Wood's artistic estate after his death?

Upon Grant Wood's death, his estate was passed to his sister, Nan Wood Graham. Following her death in 1990, the estate, including Wood's personal effects and artworks, was transferred to the Figge Art Museum in Davenport, Iowa.

What posthumous honors has Grant Wood received?

Grant Wood has been honored posthumously through the naming of the World War II Liberty Ship SS *Grant Wood*. Additionally, the Grant Wood Area Education Agency was established in his name in 1974, and he was awarded the Iowa Prize, the state's highest citizen honor, in 2009.

What is the Grant Wood Art Colony and its connection to his legacy?

The Grant Wood Art Colony is a contemporary initiative based in Grant Wood's former home in Iowa City. It aims to foster a community of artists, inspired by Wood's own attempts to establish art colonies. The colony partners with the University of Iowa to host artist fellows and symposia.

What is the significance of Grant Wood's boyhood home in Cedar Rapids?

Grant Wood's boyhood home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is recognized for its historical importance and is listed among Iowa's most endangered historic sites, highlighting its cultural value.

Beyond painting, what other artistic media did Grant Wood utilize?

Grant Wood demonstrated versatility across various media, including lithography, ink, charcoal, ceramics, metal, wood, and the use of found objects in his artistic practice.

How did Grant Wood earn income from his artistic skills during his career?

Throughout his life, Grant Wood supplemented his income by undertaking commercial art projects for Iowa-based businesses. These commissions included painting advertisements, creating sketches for promotional materials, and designing decorative elements, such as a chandelier for a hotel dining room.

What was the primary objective of the Stone City Art Colony?

The Stone City Art Colony, co-founded by Grant Wood in 1932, served as a supportive environment for artists during the challenging economic period of the Great Depression.

Who was Nan Wood Graham?

Nan Wood Graham was Grant Wood's sister. She served as the model for the daughter figure in his famous painting, *American Gothic*, and inherited his estate upon his death.

How is Grant Wood commemorated on the 2004 Iowa state quarter?

The 2004 Iowa state quarter honors Grant Wood by featuring elements related to his life and work, including his childhood country school and the inscription "Foundation in Education," recognizing his deep connection to the state.

What is the 'Gothic Revival' architectural style?

Gothic Revival is an architectural style inspired by medieval Gothic structures, often characterized by features such as pointed arches, steep roofs, and decorative elements. The cottage that inspired *American Gothic* was designed in this style.

What does the term 'Regionalism' signify within American art?

Regionalism was an American art movement prominent in the 1930s, characterized by its focus on realistic depictions of rural American life and landscapes, particularly in the Midwest. It represented a deliberate turn away from European abstract art traditions.

What was the purpose of the 'New Deal' program Grant Wood was involved with?

The New Deal was a series of programs and reforms enacted in the United States during the 1930s to address the economic crisis of the Great Depression. The Public Works of Art Project (PWAP), which Grant Wood directed, was one such initiative aimed at employing artists and beautifying public spaces.

What specific artistic influence did Jan van Eyck have on Grant Wood?

Grant Wood adopted the precise technique and clarity characteristic of the 15th-century Flemish artist Jan van Eyck, integrating these qualities into his own painting style.

How did the University of Iowa administration respond to allegations against Grant Wood?

The university administration at the University of Iowa dismissed the allegations made against Grant Wood. He would have continued his professorship had his health not declined.

What is the significance of the *American Gothic* House?

The *American Gothic* House, located in Eldon, Iowa, is the actual building that served as the setting and inspiration for Grant Wood's famous painting. It is recognized as a landmark associated with his iconic artwork.

What does the term 'spinster' imply about the daughter figure in *American Gothic*?

The term 'spinster' refers to an unmarried woman, often implying she is past the typical age for marriage. In *American Gothic*, it describes the daughter figure, highlighting her marital status within the depicted rural family context.

What is the 'Northern Renaissance' and how did it impact Grant Wood's art?

The Northern Renaissance refers to the artistic period in Northern Europe during the 15th and 16th centuries, known for its detailed realism and meticulous execution. Grant Wood's study of works from this era influenced the precise technique and compositional structure seen in paintings like *American Gothic*.

What is the 'Carpenter Gothic' architectural style?

Carpenter Gothic is a residential architectural style popular in the mid-19th century that adapted Gothic elements, such as pointed arches, for use in wooden structures. The cottage that inspired *American Gothic* was designed in this style.

What does the term 'bohemian' suggest about Grant Wood's earlier life?

The term 'bohemian' implies a lifestyle characterized by unconventional artistic pursuits and a rejection of traditional norms. The text suggests that Grant Wood's earlier 'bohemian days in Paris' were later minimized in his public persona as his distinctly American image developed.

Grant Wood Wiki: Grant Wood: An American Visionary

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Biography

Early Life and Education

Grant DeVolson Wood was born on February 13, 1891, near Anamosa, Iowa. Following the death of his father, his mother relocated the family to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Wood's artistic journey began with an apprenticeship in a local metal shop and later enrollment at The Handicraft Guild in Minneapolis in 1910. He continued his formal art education at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago from 1913 to 1916, where he also engaged in silversmithing.

European Influence and Artistic Development

Wood's artistic development was significantly shaped by his travels to Europe between 1922 and 1928. During these trips, he studied various painting styles, including Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. However, it was the meticulous technique of 15th-century Flemish masters, particularly Jan van Eyck, that profoundly influenced his approach, leading him to adopt a precise and clear style in his subsequent works. His 1928 trip to Munich was specifically to oversee the creation of stained glass windows he had designed.

Career Trajectory

Artistic Practice and Teaching

Wood served in the army during World War I, contributing as an artist designing camouflage. From 1919 to 1925, he taught art in Cedar Rapids, a position that provided financial stability and allowed for extensive summer study trips to Europe. He also experimented with woodworking and metalworking, creating pieces like the 'Mourner's Bench'. His studio, located in a converted carriage house hayloft at '5 Turner Alley' in Cedar Rapids, became a hub for his creative endeavors.

Regionalism and Institutional Roles

In 1932, Wood co-founded the Stone City Art Colony, aiming to support artists during the Great Depression and championing the principles of Regionalism. He became a vocal advocate for this artistic movement, lecturing nationally. In 1934, he accepted a position as Director of a New Deal Public Works of Art Project in Iowa City, associated with the University of Iowa. He later served as an Associate Professor of Fine Art at the University of Iowa's School of Art until 1941, mentoring students and overseeing mural projects.

Versatile Mediums

While primarily celebrated for his paintings, Grant Wood was a versatile artist who worked across numerous media. His output included lithography, ink, charcoal, ceramics, metal, wood, and even utilized found objects. Throughout his career, he applied his talents to commercial projects, such as painting advertisements and designing hotel interiors, demonstrating a practical engagement with art and commerce.

The Regionalist Movement

Defining Regionalism

Grant Wood is intrinsically linked to the American Regionalist movement, a significant artistic current primarily centered in the Midwest during the 1930s. This movement championed figurative painting that depicted rural American themes, serving as a deliberate counterpoint to the abstract styles prevalent in European art. Regionalism sought to create a distinctly American artistic identity rooted in the nation's landscapes and people.

Key Figures and Influence

Wood was a pivotal figure within Regionalism, alongside artists John Steuart Curry and Thomas Hart Benton. He actively encouraged Curry and Benton to return to the Midwest and assisted them in securing teaching positions, solidifying the movement's geographical and intellectual base. His work, along with that of his contemporaries, was often marketed through Associated American Artists in New York, further disseminating their vision of rural America.

Iconic Masterpiece: American Gothic

Creation and Recognition

Painted in 1930, American Gothic is Grant Wood's most renowned work and stands as one of the most recognizable images in American art. Its debut at the Art Institute of Chicago garnered immediate national attention, winning a $300 prize and widespread media coverage. The painting's enduring fame has led to its frequent reproduction and parody in advertisements and popular culture, achieving a status comparable to global masterpieces.

Interpretations and Context

The interpretation of American Gothic has evolved over time. Initially perceived by some critics as a satire of rural narrow-mindedness, mirroring contemporary literary trends, Wood himself rejected this reading. With the onset of the Great Depression, the painting was increasingly viewed as an emblem of steadfast American pioneer spirit. Another perspective suggests an ambiguous blend of reverence and parody. The composition draws inspiration from Northern Renaissance paintings, evident in its detailed technique and severe structure.

Visual Narrative

The painting depicts a farmer and his daughter standing before a Carpenter Gothic house in Eldon, Iowa. The figures, modeled by Wood's sister Nan and his dentist, are rendered with a sense of stoicism. The farmer holds a pitchfork, symbolizing labor, while the daughter wears attire reminiscent of 19th-century Americana. The distinctive pointed arch window of the house provided the title and a unique architectural element, grounding the work in a specific Midwestern context.

Personal Life

Marital and Private Life

Wood was married to Sara Sherman Maxon from 1935 to 1938. Contemporaries often viewed this marriage as ill-suited for him. Wood was a closeted homosexual; this aspect of his life was known among his friends, who noted his occasional playful masquerade as a rural farm boy. Despite an unsuccessful attempt by a colleague to have him dismissed on moral grounds, university administration at Iowa supported him. However, his declining health ultimately prevented his return to his professorial role.

Freemasonry

Wood was a member of the Freemasons, specifically Mount Hermon Lodge #263 in Cedar Rapids, from 1921 to 1924. During his brief association, he painted The First Three Degrees of Freemasonry in 1921. He was suspended in 1924 due to unpaid dues and had no further affiliation with the organization.

Enduring Legacy

Artistic and Cultural Impact

Upon Wood's death in 1942, his estate passed to his sister, Nan Wood Graham, the model for American Gothic. Her passing in 1990 led to his personal effects and artworks being bequeathed to the Figge Art Museum in Davenport, Iowa. His influence is recognized through various honors, including the naming of the World War II Liberty Ship SS Grant Wood and the Grant Wood Area Education Agency. In 2009, he was posthumously awarded the Iowa Prize, the state's highest citizen honor.

The Grant Wood Art Colony

The Grant Wood Art Colony, established in Iowa City, continues Wood's legacy of fostering artistic communities. Modeled after the colonies he envisioned, it hosts rotating artists and provides living quarters, continuing his commitment to supporting contemporary artists in disciplines such as painting, drawing, printmaking, and interdisciplinary performance. The colony also holds symposia, furthering the dialogue around artistic practice and heritage.

Notable Works

Paintings

Grant Wood's prolific career produced numerous significant paintings, many capturing the essence of rural American life and identity.

Spotted Man (1924)
The Little Chapel Chancelade (1926)
Woman with Plants (1929)
American Gothic (1930)
Arnold Comes of Age (1930)
Stone City, Iowa (1930)
Appraisal (1931)
Young Corn (1931)
Fall Plowing (1931)
The Birthplace of Herbert Hoover, West Branch, Iowa (1931)
The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere (1931)
Plaid Sweater (1931)
Self-Portrait (1932)
Arbor Day (1932)
Boy Milking Cow (1932)
Daughters of Revolution (1932)
Portrait of Nan (1933)
Near Sundown (1933)
Dinner for Threshers (1934)
Return from Bohemia (1935)
Death on Ridge Road (1935)
Spring Turning (1936)
The Good Influence (1936)
Seedtime and Harvest (1937)
Sultry Night (1937)
Haying (1939)
New Road (1939)
Parson Weems' Fable (1939)
January (1940)
Iowa Cornfield (1941)
Spring in the Country (1941)

Writings

Wood also contributed to discourse on art and its role in society through his writings.

Wood, Grant. "Art in the Daily Life of the Child." Rural America, March 1940, 7–9.
Revolt against the City. Iowa City: Clio Press, 1935.

Artistic Gallery

While direct image display is not possible here, the following notable works represent key aspects of Grant Wood's artistic output and thematic concerns:

The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere (1931)

This painting captures a dramatic historical moment, rendered in Wood's characteristic detailed style, focusing on narrative and American historical themes.

Daughters of Revolution (1932)

A work that often invites interpretation regarding American identity and historical representation, executed with Wood's precise technique.

Parson Weems' Fable (1939)

This piece delves into American folklore and myth-making, showcasing Wood's engagement with narratives that shape national identity.

January (1940-41)

Representing a serene, perhaps idealized, vision of rural winter life, this painting exemplifies Wood's ability to evoke atmosphere and place.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Grant Wood" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about grant_wood while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

anhui

formosa resolution of 1955

flag of the soviet union

citizens for responsibility and ethics in washington

neo-feudalism

prague

fangshi

question time tv programme

johannes vingboons

2015–16 formula e championship

References

Wilson, Scott. Resting Places: The Burial Sites of More Than 14,000 Famous Persons, 3d ed.: 2 (Kindle Location 51786). McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers. Kindle Edition.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Grant Wood Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely current. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, the AI cannot guarantee the absolute correctness or completeness of the information presented.

This is not professional art historical advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for consultation with qualified art historians, curators, or cultural experts. Always consult with professionals for in-depth analysis or specific research needs. The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Grant Wood: An American Visionary

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Biography 👤

出生 Early Life and Education

🌍 European Influence and Artistic Development

Career Trajectory 💼

🎨 Artistic Practice and Teaching

🏛️ Regionalism and Institutional Roles

🛠️ Versatile Mediums

The Regionalist Movement 🇺🇸

🌾 Defining Regionalism

🤝 Key Figures and Influence

Iconic Masterpiece: American Gothic 🖼️

🌟 Creation and Recognition

🤔 Interpretations and Context

🏡 Visual Narrative

Personal Life ❤️

💍 Marital and Private Life

⛋ Freemasonry

Enduring Legacy 🏆

🏛️ Artistic and Cultural Impact

🏘️ The Grant Wood Art Colony

Notable Works 📚

🖌️ Paintings

✍️ Writings

Artistic Gallery 🖼️

🖼️ The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere (1931)

🏛️ Daughters of Revolution (1932)

📖 Parson Weems' Fable (1939)

❄️ January (1940-41)

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Biography

Early Life and Education

European Influence and Artistic Development

Career Trajectory

Artistic Practice and Teaching

Regionalism and Institutional Roles

Versatile Mediums

The Regionalist Movement

Defining Regionalism

Key Figures and Influence

Iconic Masterpiece: American Gothic

Creation and Recognition

Interpretations and Context

Visual Narrative

Personal Life

Marital and Private Life

Freemasonry

Enduring Legacy

Artistic and Cultural Impact

The Grant Wood Art Colony

Notable Works

Paintings

Writings

Artistic Gallery

The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere (1931)

Daughters of Revolution (1932)

Parson Weems' Fable (1939)

January (1940-41)

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice