Railroads, Art, and American Life: An Artist's Memoir

Railroads, Art, and American Life is a collection of paintings and renderings by artist J. Craig Thorpe that tells the story of rail transportation in America through the life and works of the artist. Commissioned by companies such as Amtrak and General Electric, Thorpe's work can be found featured on items ranging from catalogs to calendars, postcards to posters. The book features more than 130 color illustrations and combines history, biography, ethics, and humor to invite the reader to relive the heyday of American rail and better understand the role of railroads in our society today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: Indiana University Press

Explore the captivating journey of rail travel through the mesmerizing 30-year artistic odyssey of J. Craig Thorpe. Once a familiar sight on the American landscape, trains have gradually faded from public view, leaving behind a rich tapestry of memories. While photographs capture the intricate details of what, where, and when, paintings possess a unique ability to delve deeper into the essence of a particular era.

Collecting a remarkable collection of more than thirty years of paintings and renderings, Railroads, Art, and American Life unveils the captivating story of rail transportation in America through the visionary lens of artist J. Craig Thorpe. Commissioned by esteemed companies such as Amtrak and General Electric, Thorpe's artwork graces a wide range of items, from catalogs to calendars, postcards to posters. His artwork not only captures the grandeur of the golden age of train travel but also reflects upon the present and imagines a promising future.

Featuring over 130 vibrant color illustrations, this captivating book blends history, biography, ethics, and humor to create a truly immersive experience. Thorpe's personal journey intertwines with his paintings, inviting readers to relive the heyday of American rail and gain a deeper understanding of the profound role that railroads play in our society today.

Through his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to evoke emotions, Thorpe's artwork transports viewers back in time, allowing them to experience the thrill and romance of train travel. At the same time, it offers a thought-provoking perspective on the challenges and opportunities that the rail industry faces in the 21st century.

Railroads, Art, and American Life is a testament to the enduring power of art to capture the essence of a bygone era and inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around us. Whether you are a train enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of visual storytelling, this book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to explore the past, present, and future of rail travel through the remarkable works of J. Craig Thorpe.

Dimension: 216 x 279 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253065360