The artwork “Hollywood” by Thomas Hart Benton, created between 1937 and 1938, belongs to the Regionalism art movement and falls under the genre painting category. It is a masterful depiction of Hollywood’s film industry during its golden era, highlighting the bustling activity and various roles involved in movie production.
In the artwork, a vibrant and intricate scene presents a film set brimming with activity. The foreground features a scantily clad actress posing on a set resembling ancient architecture, surrounded by an array of film crew members, including camera operators, directors, and lighting technicians. Each individual is engrossed in their specific task, underlining the collaborative nature of filmmaking. The composition extends into a complex background that combines elements of the studio’s interior with a dramatic exterior scene of burning buildings and rescue boats, indicative of the diverse narratives crafted by the Hollywood film industry. Benton’s use of exaggerated forms and dynamic movements captures the chaotic yet orchestrated environment, adding a narrative depth to this genre painting.
