Benjamin West was a key figure in the development of American art, even though he lived in London for most of his life. Born in Pennsylvania, he was one of the first American artists to achieve international acclaim. His London studio became a training ground for many aspiring American painters, including Gilbert Stuart and Charles Willson Peale. West was a pioneer of Neoclassical painting, and his large-scale historical scenes were highly influential. The American Arts series, which also honored figures from literature, music, and film, aimed to celebrate the breadth of American creative achievement. The selection of West for this series underscored his foundational role in establishing a tradition of fine art in America.