The exhibition of the famous graphic artist Rockwell Kent opened in Philadelphia

An exhibition of the artist, writer, adventurer and politician Rockwell Kent (1882-1971) opened in Philadelphia, which, as an engraver and book illustrator, left an important legacy for US art. His drawings and prints are still proving their effectiveness both in advertising and as book illustrations.

The current exhibition reviews the artist’s achievements from 1907 to 1950, including the artist’s trips around the country, his stories, illustrations for literary classics and advertising constructions, as well as works that highlight his commitment to left-wing politics during World War I. The exhibition acquaints with more than 200 works of the author from pen and ink drawings to a lithographic stone and opens the curtain on the artist’s creative processes.

Dorothy J. del Bueno, curator of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, explains: “In the 1920s and 30s, when he achieved celebrity status, Rockwell Kent was recognized as one of the most famous graphic artists in North America. By the 1950s, the artist’s reputation had declined, partly because of his support for the controversial progressive method and the dominance of abstract expressionism in the avant-garde art circles of the United States of that time. Today, his work again attracts increased interest and, fortunately, the rich collections of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, offer a new opportunity to review the depth and complexity of his achievements. "

Under the deep influence of transcendentalism, Kent actively resorted to allegory and symbolism, often depicting human figures against a backdrop of harsh nature. A lifelong proponent of leftist politics, the artist was accused of anti-American activity on a special Committee in 1953. He was later refused a passport due to his alleged membership of the Communist Party. In 1960, Kent donated several hundred of his paintings and drawings to the Soviet Union, many of which can be seen today in the State Hermitage.

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