John Sloan (1871–1951) was a prominent American painter and printmaker, known for his role in the Ashcan School of art, which focused on depicting urban life in early 20th-century New York City. Born in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, Sloan began his career as a newspaper illustrator before transitioning into fine art. He became known for his gritty, realistic portrayals of everyday scenes, capturing the vibrancy and complexity of working-class life. Beyond his own work, Sloan was a dedicated teacher and mentor, influencing a generation of artists through his advocacy for artistic independence and social realism.