Bellows' paintings of prize fights were considered "transgressive" for several reasons. One of the main reasons is that he depicted mixed-race fighters, which was a controversial subject at the time due to racial tensions and discrimination. By portraying these fighters in his art, Bellows challenged societal norms and confronted issues of race and equality.
Additionally, Bellows' paintings were also seen as transgressive because he painted men's bodies in a homoerotic way. This depiction of the male physique in a sensual or suggestive manner went against traditional conservative values and pushed boundaries in terms of how masculinity and male bodies were portrayed in art.
Furthermore, the context of the Lewis Act of 1900, which had made fighting illegal in New York State, added another layer of transgression to Bellows' work. By capturing and showcasing illegal and violent activities such as prize fights, Bellows challenged authority and questioned the societal norms and laws of the time.
In conclusion, Bellows' paintings of prize fights were considered transgressive due to his portrayal of mixed-race fighters, the homoerotic depiction of men's bodies, and the defiance of the legal restrictions on fighting, all of which pushed boundaries and challenged prevailing attitudes and norms in society.
