Wood, Grant (1892–1942)

US painter. A distinguished Regionalist and painter of the American Scene, Wood's work is often regarded as satirical and his paintings are frequently characterized by his sense of humour. Though his work is highly stylized, he struck a note of hard realism in his studies of farmers and Midwestern life. This realism is apparent in Wood's famous American Gothic (1930; Art Institute, Chicago). The painting, depicting Wood's sister Nan and a dentist, Dr B H McKeely, has come to symbolize hard work and sobriety in the Midwest. The work earned Wood instant fame.

Born in Anamosa, Iowa, Wood studied at the Chicago Art Institute, Minneapolis Handicraft School, and in Paris. He taught in the public schools in Cedar Rapids, Iowa 1919–24. Although he travelled extensively, he worked mainly in his home state of Iowa throughout his career. His work often shows a cunning sense of humour, as illustrated by his painting Daughters of Revolution (1932; Cincinnati Art Museum, Ohio), which satirized membership of patriotic societies. Wood's bright colours, subject matter, and artful brushwork is heavily influenced by 15th-century Flemish art. In general, he did not paint from life, but how he recalled life to be when he was younger, offering a romantic imaginative version of rural life. He also adds a satirical twist to existing subject matter.

Other Regionalists include John Steuart Curry and Thomas Hart Benton.