since the mid-1880s, riley had been the nation's most read poet, a trend that accelerated at the turn of the century. in 1912 riley recorded readings of his most popular poetry to be sold by the victor talking machine company. he was the subject of three paintings by t. c. steele. the indianapolis arts association commissioned a portrait of riley to be created by the world-famous painter john singer sargent. his image became a nationally known icon and many businesses capitalized on his popularity to sell their products; hoosier poet brand vegetables became a major trade-name in the midwest.