Ruth Chaney

American, 1910 - 1973

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The image shows a street scene among several buildings, with the horizon obscured by tall, dark structures. On the left, a building with exposed interiors has figures on different levels. In the center and right, a man carries a plank while another throws a baseball bat. The setting appears to be early to mid-20th century, with monochromatic tones and soft brushstrokes creating a dreamlike quality. Dark shadows and light contrasts enhance the moody atmosphere of the urban scene.
Ruth Chaney, Untitled (Razing A Building), c. 1939, lithograph, Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams, 2008.115.1197

Untitled (Razing A Building)

Ruth Chaney · c. 1939 · lithograph ·  Accession ID  2008.115.1197

The image shows three men standing closely together, all facing forward. The man on the left has an elongated facial structure, the center man has a robust jawline, and the man on the right has defined cheekbones. They have short hair, distinct brows, and noses and wear swimming trunks. Their bodies are lean and athletic. In the background, a figure runs along a shoreline toward the sea, with a lifeguard stand on the right. The sea merges to the horizon.
Ruth Chaney, Federal Art Project (New York City), Swimmers, c. 1936, etching and drypoint in black on wove paper, Gift of Bob Stana and Tom Judy, 2017.148.12

Swimmers

Ruth Chaney, Federal Art Project (New York City) · c. 1936 · etching and drypoint in black on wove paper ·  Accession ID  2017.148.12