Bellows, George Wesley (1882-1925)

US painter. He is associated with the Ashcan School, and known for his vigorous portrayals of the drama of street life and sport. His most famous works, such as Stag at Sharkey's 1909, depict the violence and excitement of illegal boxing matches.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, USA, Bellows painted in the realist style of the Ashcan School whose subjects centred on city life, the poor, and outcasts. Taught by Robert Henri, he became the youngest academician of his time. He was involved in the progressive artists movement and helped create the Armory Show 1913 which marked the arrival of abstract art in the USA.