‘An American Idyll’ On View At RISD Museum

Frank W. Benson, "Summer,” 1909, Museum of Art, Rhode Island School of Design, bequest of Isaac C. Bates. —Erik Gould photo

Nineteenth Century American paintings provide an idyllic history of the United States: prosperous, homogeneous and serene.

In their choices of subjects and in their direct and observant styles, American artists were able to convey their reverence for nature and their general optimism for the future of the nation. More than 100 years of museum collecting reveals how these images create a sense of national identity.

The exhibition includes fine examples by Thomas Cole, Winslow Homer, Eastman Johnson and others to invite exploration of what their work reveals about culture.

RISD is at 224 Benefit Street. For information, www.risdmuseum.org or 401-454-6500.