Portrait of Nan

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through one of our paintings: Grant Wood's striking "Portrait of Nan." Completed in 1933, this oil on canvas measures almost 3 feet wide by over 3 and a half feet tall, offering us an intimate glimpse into the life of its subject. nn The painting immediately draws your eye to Nan, who sits posed against a deep green curtain that fills the background. Bathed in soft light emanating from the left, her calm expression and the gentle way she holds a small yellow chick create a sense of quiet affection. Wood's choice of a limited color palette, with rich browns and the stark contrast of Nan's white and black polka-dot top, emphasizes the simplicity of the scene. nn Grant Wood was a key figure in the American Regionalist movement, and this painting embodies that style. Notice the clarity of the forms, the smooth brushstrokes, and the focus on everyday subject matter – all hallmarks of Regionalism's celebration of rural American life. "Portrait of Nan" is not just a portrait; it's a glimpse into the character of a woman and, through her, a whisper of the resilience and quiet strength found in the heartland. We are fortunate that the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art has shared this piece with us, allowing us to connect with Wood's vision and this moment frozen in time.