The American Gothic House Center announced today the acquisition of their first original Grant Wood work.  The lithograph, titled Fruits (1939), is an important piece of Grant Wood history as it highlights his use of the print medium, which was a result of the difficult financial times of the 1930’s.  The work holds an important connection to the Center as Nan Wood Graham, Grant Wood’s sister, was instrumental in hand-coloring this lithograph series.  Nan served as the female model for American Gothic (1930) and visited Eldon several times over the course of her life.

“We are extremely pleased to bring this work to the Wapello County community.  We hope this work will enhance visitor experiences and further connect local residents to the museum”, said Holly Berg, American Gothic House Center administrator.

The work was purchased with funds contributed by the Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation, City of Eldon and John Deere Ottumwa Works.  The lithograph will be placed on permanent display beginning April, 2014.  For more information email TheAmericanGothicHouse@gmail.com.