Reframing an Empire: Thomas Cole

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This article originally appeared on the WMHT website.

Thomas Cole's life and work coincide with a pivotal period in American History. Before Cole's eyes and on his canvas, the newly formed nation would find a vision of its identity born and its future questioned. Americna history fixates on 1776 and 1865, but in the period between lies a rich and under-explored territory.

In the first episode of Reframing an Empire, examine the profound influence of Thomas Cole's technique and artistry on American art, specifically New York: The Empire State. Discover how his paintings shaped the American identity and aesthetic. Read more...