Texas Oil Fire 1939

Herman Cherry's 1939 lithograph, "Texas Oil Fire", is a stark depiction of an oil fire engulfing a refinery, its flames consuming the surrounding landscape. The artist's use of dark, shadowy strokes and the dramatic contrast between the fiery inferno and the darkened foreground create a powerful visual impact. The inclusion of a lone, skeletal railroad track in the foreground further emphasizes the desolation and devastation of the scene, highlighting the destructive power of industrial accidents. This print is a testament to Cherry's commitment to depicting the realities of industrial life and its impact on the environment.