Of Their Time: Hudson River School to Postwar Modernism

From the Industrial Revolution (1820-1870) to the end of World War II (1945), the 19th and 20th centuries were transformative years for America. Expansion of empire, urban growth, technological innovation and the protection of natural resources were particular concerns facing America. Visual artists, from the Hudson River School painters to the Postwar Modernists, were particularly attentive to these concerns—with their own observations reflected in the magnificent works of art they created. 

Of Their Time primarily features primarily works from the Castellani Art Museum’s permanent collection. Art historical movements from the Hudson River School to Post World War II Modernism are presented in chronological order. Early works capture the character and natural beauty of American scenery before it was changed by industrialization, while others speak to post-industrial growth and international conflicts. Additionally, a number of works invite viewers to think about the intersection between the natural world and the advancement of urbanism.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website.