Public Utilities 1932

"Public Utilities" (1932) is a lithograph by American artist Joe Jones (1909-1963) depicting a street scene with a post office, a fire hydrant, a utility pole and other details of urban life. The use of simplified forms and geometric shapes is characteristic of Jones' style which was influenced by American Regionalism and Social Realism. He used strong lines and shading to convey the solidity of the scene while also highlighting the social commentary in the piece. The litho is a testament to Jones' mastery of the medium and his ability to depict everyday life with a sense of both realism and abstraction.