Styles & Periods

• Artists
• Styles & Periods
• Associations
• Glossary
• Projects
• Purchase Guides

Regionalism

In the 1930s, after the alienation of war and the economic hardships of the Depression, art in America became more conservative, reacting against the principles of European Modernism. Regionalism, one of the two main styles of painting at this time, centered on “American” themes, and in particular, scenes from the Midwest. The Regionalists’ work is figurative and representational, rejecting any overtly abstract influences. Nationalism is dominant in these paintings that strove to establish a new style that reflected uniquely American concerns. Small towns, families living on farms, and the American landscape were glorified, as if propaganda to feed a tired nation. Thomas Hart Benton was a leader among the Regionalists. He created murals based on sketches he produced while traveling extensively throughout the United States. While he dominated the style, his work had many aspects of pre-war international art. Another major figure was Grant Wood, whose American Gothic became one of America’s most celebrated paintings.

Some Artists In This Style

Thomas Hart Benton
(1889-1975)

Edward Hopper
(1882-1967)

Feeling inspired? Try out these fine products…

Up to 50% Off XL Recycled Drawing Pads by Canson High quality and Earth friendly!	Up to 35% Off Standard Acrylic 120ml by Amsterdam Your choice for color!	From $15.99 The Realism Challenge by Watson-Guptill Drawing & painting secrets from a master of hyperrealism.
At Least 39% Off Professional Acrylic Colour Starter Set by Winsor & Newton Thick buttery consistency	Up to 40% Off XL Black Drawing Pad by Canson For bold and distinctive drawings.	Up to 50% Off Black Gold Brush Sets by Dynasty Create amazing watercolor effects