Stagecoach and Mail 1937

Archibald Motley's "Stagecoach and Mail" presents a narrative deeply embedded in American history and identity. Born in 1891, Motley lived through times of great social change, and his work often reflects the complexities of race and class. Here, we see a stagecoach, a symbol of westward expansion, and a “wanted” poster hanging from a tree. Note the armed guard standing in front of the coach, a stark reminder of the violence inherent in this expansion. The passengers, huddled inside, seem vulnerable, their safety uncertain. Motley does not simply romanticize the Old West; instead, he offers a more nuanced view. Consider the social and political implications of who was allowed to travel freely and safely during this period, and who was seen as a threat. Motley encourages us to consider the stories that are often left out of the traditional narratives of the American West. Motley’s art invites us to confront uncomfortable truths about the past, challenging us to reflect on how these histories continue to shape our present.