In the early 20th century, the Puget Sound was home to a highly progressive artistic and cultural scene, shaped by the regionâs rapid urbanization, its singular natural environment, and its orientation to the Pacific Rim. This generative milieu was fertile ground for four well-known artistsâGuy Anderson, Kenneth Callahan, Morris Graves, and Mark Tobeyâwhose shared admiration for the Pacific Northwest landscape and perceived alignment with Asian and Northwest Coast Native cultures won them the title of âMysticsâ of a Northwest school of modernism. But these artists are only part of the fascinating history of modern art in the Pacific Northwest. This exhibition retells the story of Northwest Modernism to reveal its range, complexity, and significance within the context of American Modernism.
Indeed, at once dynamic and transnational, Northwest Modernism was resonant with artistic developments nationally, yet collectively attuned to the distinct and palpable character of home. Featuring over 150 works by artists ranging from Graves, Callahan, Anderson, and Tobey to Marsden Hartley, Georgia OâKeeffe, Salvador DalĂ, and Yves Tanguy, the exhibition uncovers the variety of styles, subjects, ideas, and exploits of this exciting moment in American art history.
The exhibition is accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue authored by Theresa Papanikolas, SAMâs Ann M. Barwick Curator of American Art.