The State Historical Society of Missouri

April 17, 2008

Thomas Hart Benton in the 1930s

“Those who knew Tom Benton marveled that his five-foot-frame could contain such intellectual force, such physical strength and such vitality of life,” said then Society curator and Benton student, friend, and collaborator Sidney Larson at the time of the artist’s passing in 1975. “All three of these qualities personified a larger than life rugged individualism.”

Thomas Hart Benton in the 1930s showcases the artist’s individualism in lithographs, paintings, and drawings from the decade when Benton achieved prominence in American art circles. These works reflect the artist’s aesthetic and political ideas while providing insight into America’s social climate during the Great Depression.

“The 1930s were when Benton became Benton,” said Joan Stack, curator of art collections at the State Historical Society. “He committed himself to creating art that depicted the common man, representing people who were usually ignored by the art establishment.”

Thomas Hart Benton in the 1930s is free and open to the public. The State Historical Society is located on the ground floor, east side of Ellis Library on the University of Missouri campus. The main gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m.

posted @ 1:37 PM

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