Rocco Navigato

Rocco Navigato was an artist active during a concise period between 1935 and 1940. Their professional output is directly associated with the Index of American Design (IAD), a landmark initiative established under the Federal Art Project (FAP) during the Great Depression. The IAD commissioned artists to create meticulous, detailed renderings of American historical decorative arts, craft, and folk objects for the purpose of visual documentation and preservation.

Navigato's known body of work reflects this mandate, focusing on accurate depictions of utilitarian and traditional American objects. Six of their renderings are represented in museum collections, confirming the quality and historical significance of the work. These pieces are preserved in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art.

The documented subjects rendered by Navigato include Plinker and Wood Block, a detailed study of a shooting target accessory; Trivet, an illustration of a cast metal stand; Iron Kettle; Decoy; and Iron Sole, likely detailing a historic tool or shoe last. These detailed illustrations serve as important historical records, and many are available today as high-quality prints for researchers and enthusiasts.

As products of a federal initiative, Rocco Navigato’s works created for the Index of American Design are often categorized within the public domain, allowing for widespread access and use. The visual detail maintained in these illustrations ensures their lasting scholarly value as downloadable artwork.