Back of the Fort are the Spanish Peaks, landmarks of the way to Taos and Santa Fe. The lower panels, right and left of the door, show Independence in the late 1840's and the Missouri River landing where arrived most of the goods and peoples which changed Independence from quiet backwoods settlement to a gateway of destiny. President Truman's love of history only confirmed his affinity for the new mural. Regionalism An art movement originating in the 1920's and 30's sought to capture the sweat and grit of the 'real' America. It was fostered by the artists John Stuart Curry, Grant Wood, and Thomas Hart Benton.
Artists use colors to influence the viewer's feelings.
For example, pale pastels evoke different emotions than strong, bright colors. Identify three different scenes in the mural and give a brief description of the action taking place. Choose one scene of the mural and tell the story of the people in that scene. Write the dialogue and describe the actions that are taking place. Read the quote and answer the following questions.