“Arts of the South” is a genre painting created by Thomas Hart Benton in 1932 as part of the series “The Arts of Life in America.” Executed in tempera and oil, this artwork belongs to the Regionalism art movement and is exhibited at the New Britain Museum of American Art in New Britain, Connecticut.
This artwork vividly portrays a lively and dynamic scene of rural Southern American life in the early 20th century. The painting is characterized by Benton’s distinctive style featuring exaggerated, energetic figures and strong, flowing lines. Central to the composition is a group of African American individuals engaged in various activities such as singing, playing musical instruments, and interacting with one another. The vibrant expressions and gestures of the figures reflect a sense of community and cultural richness. In the background, a horse-drawn carriage and a chapel can be seen, symbolizing aspects of daily life and spirituality in the rural South. Benton’s use of light and shadow creates depth, while the rich, earthy tones emphasize the warmth and vitality of the scene.
