George Luks and the American scene

In this study George Luks’ artistic achievements are examined from the standpoint of the artist’s role as a commentator on the American scene of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The basic art historical account is expanded upon through a consideration of social history, the impact of historical events, and parallels in American literature. Such a multifaceted approach should enable the reader to better understand Luks’ position in the history of American art. The discussion commences with Luks’ early years and his participation in the tradition of both American artist-illustrators and painters who record the American scene. In this process consideration is given to Winslow Homer, Thomas Eakins, Thomas Anshutz, and Robert Henri. Luks’ political cartoons for The Verdict, comics for the New York World, and sketches for Vanity Fair, achievements which have not previously been reviewed in art historical literature, are next given attention. The works by Luks discussed in this study reflect vital influences from the sociocultural environment. Consideration to this relationship, especially the significance of the theme of the “strenuous life,” as defined and interpreted by Theodore Roosevelt, Strengthens the connection between Luks and his own experiences as they are documented within his ceuvre. A discussion of parallels in the literary tradition as evidenced in the writings of Theodore Dreiser, Stephen Crane, and Frank Norris serves to further record the individual American’s response to the evolving urban experience. A reference to artists Philip Evergood, Reginald Marsh, and Joseph Hirsch, once students of Luks, demonstrates Luks’ influence on these subsequent artists and their comments on the American scene. This study affirms the interrelationship of the traditions of the “fine” and “popular” arts in America and serves as a basis for re-evaluating the contributions of other American artists. Finally, it is hoped that this study provides for a better understanding Luks, both as a human being and as an American artist.