Artwork of the Week: January 13
The figure depicted in this illustration is that of the typical college boy from the 1920s perhaps fatigued by studying, or, more likely, from partying all night. With his slicked back hair, Oxford bags trousers and bright shoes, this stylish student has dropped the book he was supposed to be reading from in favor of some extra sleep. Sleeping in his hammock tied to an unseen tree, the boy is seemingly unaware of the bright yellow bird above him in the branches, perhaps emphatically and unsuccessfully chirping to warn the student of his upcoming class.
John Held, Jr., a Utah native cartoonist producing illustrations in New York City during the 1920s, was fascinated by college life. As coeducational institutions became the norm during this decade, the ‘New Woman’ and ‘Joe College’ types symbolized modernity and rapid cultural change. Held’s illustrations were seen as the ultimate indicators of style and fashion that college-aged students sought to mimic. Humorous in nature, Held’s cartoons still resonate with modern college audiences, despite the 100 year gap between his illustrations and our modern day.
This playful illustration of college life is currently on display in our exhibit John Held, Jr. until April 2025.
