The Ghost of Tom Joad by artist Billy Flynn Gadbois is an oil chiaroscuro, 18” x 24” x 3/4”, on hand-stretched, fine-tooth imported polyblend canvas.

Inspired by the character in Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath, Tom shows us the hard life of a farmer during the Dust Bowl era. The simplicity of this piece belies the complexity of its true detail! The artist has executed shadows within the shadows, especially notable under the collar and in the ripples of the sweater material. Tom’s collared shirt is worn and rubbed dirty from ages of a workingman’s unwashed hands straightening and adjusting it throughout the day’s labor, with one side curled over from the lack of washing to the point that the rough linen fabric is stiff and thick. The drape and movement in the cardigan fabric subtly and effectively present the change in color and intensity in the fibers as light is cast across it. It is a piece that speaks increasingly as you spend time with it!

Please visit the Silver Circle Gallery in the heart of downtown Putnam to view the artwork in person. It is also available for local pick-up and delivery.