Thomas Hart Benton established his reputation in the 1930s with five mural projects that changed the face of American Art and provided the principle artistic models for the Work Projects Administration (WPA) mural program. On the strength of these projects, Benton quickly became one of the most famous and controversial artists in America. He was even featured on the cover of Time in 1934, the first time this honor had been awarded to an artist. Today Benton remains a lightning rod for argument and diversity of opinion, whether for his activities as the leader of the Regionalist movement, or for his role as the teacher and mentor of Jackson Pollock. - Dr. Henry Adams
The History of Water
1930, Egg tempera and oil on panel
83 1/4 (H) x 65 1/4 (W) inches
Signed lower right "Benton"
