Men of Steel, Women of Wonder

Superman and Wonder Woman are two of the most beloved icons in American pop culture. Created in times of economic adversity and war, these characters quickly emerged as beacons of American morality, representing the ideals of truth, justice, and the American way.Men of Steel, Women of Wonder examines art world responses to Superman and Wonder Woman ranging from their Depression-era origins to today’s contemporary artist interpretations. The exhibition includes over 70 paintings, photographs, installations, videos, and more by a wide range of artists, exploring national identity, American values, social politics, and the concept of humanity.

Men of Steel, Women of Wonder is organized by Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas.

     

 

Images: Fahamu Pecou, Nunna My Heros: After Barkley Hendricks’ ‘Icon for My Man Superman,’ 1969, 2011. Acrylic, gold leaf, and oil stick on canvas; 63 x 49.5 inches. Collection of the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. Gift of Marjorie and Michael Levine, 2012.8.1. © Fahamu Pecou. Photo by Peter Paul Geoffrion; Mel Ramos, Wonder Woman, 1962, oil on canvas, 50 x 44 inches. Rochelle and Darren Leininger Famlly Collection.