by Melissa Strong

Regionalism is a style and mode of expression that has helped to distinguish American arts by celebrating what makes our country special and unique. Regionalism resists a homogenized, “melting pot” conception of American culture, instead recognizing that American identities and experiences differ depending on place but also class, race, ethnicity, and gender. Equally important, regionalism usually attempts faithful renderings rather than caricatures, unlike shows such as Swamp People; the best regionalist artists dignify, not degrade, their subjects.