John J. Wagner Family Portrait c. 1940

Archie Thompson, a self-taught artist, created the *John J. Wagner Family Portrait* in the early 1940s. The painting depicts the Wagner family posed in a formal arrangement, with John J. Wagner seated prominently at the front, holding a newspaper. The women and children stand behind him, their attire suggesting a middle-class family during this period. Thompson, known for his folk art style, employs a simple and direct approach, capturing the essence of his subjects with simplified forms and vibrant colors. This heartwarming portrayal, showcasing the family dynamics, stands as a testament to the enduring tradition of family portraiture.