Hugh Laidman: A Chronicle of Cranes and the American Landscape Hugh Laidman (1914-1987) wasn’t merely an artist; he was a meticulous observer, a chronicler of industry and the evolving relationship between humanity and its environment. Born in New York City but deeply rooted in Western New York, his career spanned decades, encompassing commercial illustration, mural work, comic strips, and ultimately, a singular, intensely personal artistic vision centered on cranes, construction sites, and the quiet grandeur of the American landscape. His legacy lies not just in the striking images he produ…