California Regionalism
Oils on Canvas
The exhibition featured works in the regionalist style that came to the fore during the 1920s. Regionalist artists chose to paint the world around them, capturing everyday scenes and subjects that previous generations had considered too ordinary to be worth recording.
Many of California’s finest artists were associated with the movement and the exhibition features works by Phil Dike, Ralph Huelett, Emil Kosa Jr., Ben Messick, Barse Millar, Phil Paradise, Paul Sample and Millard Sheets.
The Chouinard Art School in downtown LA, was the epicenter of the Southern California regionalists and many of their works showed local landmarks such as Chinatown and the Angel’s Flight funicular railway. During the 20s and 30s, in response to increased immigration, the urban landscape began a period of change, which reached its most radical phase with the demolition of Bunker Hill in the 1950s.
Through their depiction of life and work, the regionalist painters documented the changes, reflecting new patterns of industrialization, settlement and leisure in California.
Their work is familiar to all who love the State, for even though the occupations and buildings may have changed, the core of California life continues to inspire.
Ralph Hulett
Under the Overpass
1950
Phil Dike
Sunday Afternoon in the Plaza de Los Angeles
1939
Joseph Frey
The Rite Spot, Pasadena, CA
1928
Emil Kosa, Jr.
Big Top
ca 1940
Emil Kosa, Jr.
Looking Towards the Civic Center, San Francisco
ca 1940
On behalf of my students, colleagues, and myself, I would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to the amazing folks at the California Heritage Museum. Everyone was incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, and friendly to our large group! My students had a blast while learning about renowned artists important to California and Los Angeles' rich history. We look forward to coming back next school year!
Mr. Filidor, Educator - TEACH Tech Charter High School, South Los Angeles