George Wesley Bellows was an American realist painter known for his depictions of urban life in New York City. Born in Columbus, Ohio, he studied at Ohio State University before moving to New York to study under Robert Henri. A member of the Ashcan School, Bellows became one of the most acclaimed American artists of the early twentieth century, known for raw, energetic paintings of boxing matches, city streets, and coastal landscapes. He was elected to the National Academy of Design at age 27, making him one of the youngest academicians in its history.