Artist: Luks, George Benjamin (1867-1933)

Lily Williams

Inventory Number: 2011-FA1

Object Description: George Benjamin Luks, one of the prominent members of the Ashcan School, a group of American artists known for their gritty, realistic depictions of urban life in the early 20th century. Luks, who was renowned for his bold brushwork and dynamic compositions, often painted figures from the streets, capturing both their humanity and the vibrancy of everyday life. This portrait exemplifies his ability to bring out the personality and emotional depth of his subjects, focusing on both the individual and the larger social context.

In this painting, the young girl is depicted wearing a striking green jacket that immediately draws the viewer’s eye. The color of the jacket contrasts beautifully with the more muted tones of the background, giving the figure a sense of presence and energy. Luks uses thick, expressive brushstrokes to create the texture of the fabric, adding dimension and movement to the piece. The green jacket, with its bold hue, becomes not only a focal point of the painting but also a symbol of youth and vitality.