Despite the popularity of Abstract Expressionism and Minimalism, many American artists remained committed to figural representation—with a critical edge.
1945–1980 C.E.
videos + essays
We're adding new content all the time!
Philip Guston: the restless artist painting everyday evil
Throughout Guston's career, his work captures a sense of restlessness and a willingness to change.
Brummett Echohawk, An Island of Redbuds on the Cimarron
Light and color take center stage in this soul illustration of the Oklahoma landscape where Echohawk and his family have lived for generations.
Ruthe Blalock Jones, Medicine Woman
Bright red fringe, a pheasant and macaw feather fan, trade blankets—these meticulous details shine in this painting of a member of the Native American Church.
Romare Bearden, Three Folk Musicians
An abstract painting, a collage, three musicians, two guitars and a banjo.
Lin Tianmiao on Alex Katz’s Black and Brown Blouse
"He enlarges private life and makes it public, catching the most touching, the most revealing, the most hidden moment ..."
Duane Hanson, Executive, originally titled, Another Day
Museum visitors often mistake this sculpture for a real person
Jess, If All the World Were Paper and All the Water Sink
From the Manhattan Project to nursery rhymes, a collision of art and science.
Benny Andrews, Flag Day
Does the figure emerge from the stripes of the flag, or do they imprison him?
