"Sweeney, The Idol of the Kids, Had Hit a Home Run" 19th-20th century

Editor: This is George Bellows’ "Sweeney, The Idol of the Kids, Had Hit a Home Run." I’m struck by the contrast in textures and the grittiness of the scene, the charcoal really emphasizes the working class environment. What catches your eye? Curator: I notice the stark contrast in the depiction of Sweeney versus the other figures. The artist directs our attention to the star by his physical state and his posture. This image speaks volumes about how labor, class, and celebrity intersect, doesn't it? Are we celebrating achievement or exploiting it? Editor: That's interesting; I didn’t consider that. It definitely gives me a new perspective on how to interpret this. Thanks! Curator: Thinking about the means of production and the social context really shifts the focus, doesn't it?