Eugene Kingman (1909–1975) was a visionary American artist, muralist, and museum director whose creative career spanned the Great Depression, World War II, and the rise of post-war American modernism. Known for his atmospheric landscapes and iconic murals, Kingman combined artistic excellence with public service, leaving a lasting legacy in both the art world and the civic realm.

A graduate of Yale University, Kingman began his artistic journey as an illustrator for The Yale Record, where his early drawings demonstrated both technical skill and a keen eye for composition. His promise as a young artist led to prestigious opportunities during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, when he was commissioned by the United States Treasury Art Project to paint three post office murals. These works, still visible today in Kemmerer, Wyoming; Hyattsville, Maryland; and East Providence, Rhode Island, reflect Kingman’s enduring interest in the American landscape and the spirit of place.

In 1948, Kingman created one of his most celebrated works: a mural for the lobby of The New York Times building, which remained on public view there for over four decades. This landmark piece has since been restored and permanently installed at the Omaha Public Library, where it continues to inspire new generations. Kingman’s mastery of landscape painting is particularly evident in his oil works that depict the American West, including Yosemite and Crater Lake National Parks. His paintings were featured in a 1937 issue of National Geographic Magazine, capturing the majesty of the natural world with clarity and grandeur. He was also commissioned to produce seven National Park landscapes for the 1931 Paris Expo, demonstrating international recognition of his talent.

Later in his career, Kingman served as Director of the Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha, Nebraska. His deep ties to Nebraska and its vast prairie landscapes inspired many of his later works, celebrated in the publication Kingman’s Nebraska. In honor of his contributions, the Eugene Kingman Room and Gallery will open in Summer 2025 at Joslyn Castle in Omaha. This dedicated space will showcase his paintings and murals, preserving his creative legacy for future audiences. Kingman’s art is a testament to beauty, heritage, and the power of American regionalism—blending public purpose with artistic excellence.