A Midwestern Voice: The Life and Art of Thomas Hart Benton Thomas Hart Benton, a name synonymous with American Regionalism, was more than just an artist; he was a chronicler of the heartland, a passionate advocate for its people, and a defiant voice against artistic trends that sought to diminish America’s unique identity. Born in Neosho, Missouri, in 1889, his journey from a politically-minded family's expectations to becoming one of the most recognizable figures in American art is a testament to an irrepressible creative spirit. His story begins not within the hallowed halls of academia bu…