Wisconsin 1936

Walt Kuhn painted this portrait, titled "Wisconsin," in 1936, using oil on canvas. The visible brushstrokes and the earthy palette speak volumes about the artist's process. Kuhn’s application of paint is direct and unfussy, almost like a sketch, imbuing the work with an immediacy that transcends mere representation. The texture of the canvas is still apparent, hinting at the labor involved in its creation. We can almost feel the weight of the materials he used, the give of the brush against the fabric. Kuhn’s focus wasn’t on a slick, polished surface, but rather on capturing the essence of his subject, which reflects a broader interest in ordinary people. This approach challenges the traditional hierarchy between high art and the everyday, elevating the common worker through the act of portraiture. So, as you consider this work, think about how Kuhn's choices regarding material and technique inform the overall impact, making a statement about value, labor, and representation.