Page 6: Documents B and C - Art and Activism
Page 6 presents two additional documents BandC focusing on the theme of art and activism, particularly during the 1930s and in contemporary times. These documents explore:
- The role of art in political and social change
- The relationship between artists and workers during the Great Depression
- Government support for artists through programs like the New Deal
- The ongoing debate about the intersection of art and politics
Document B discusses the historical context of political art during the Great Depression, while Document C appears to be a more contemporary reflection on the power of political art to effect change.
Quote: "Art never affects the world in a vacuum. It exists as a part of culture. Political art standing against repressive forces in society is part of the culture of change."
Vocabulary:
- New Deal: A series of programs and financial reforms enacted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression
- Political art: Artwork that explicitly addresses political or social issues
Highlight: Both documents emphasize the potential of art to influence society, preserve memory, and contribute to social movements.
Example: During the 1930s, artists organized exhibitions on themes such as poverty, affordable housing, anti-lynching, and workers' strikes.
These documents provide a rich context for discussing the role of art in society, particularly during times of social and economic upheaval. They offer students the opportunity to explore how artistic expression can serve as a form of activism and social commentary. The comparison between the 1930s and contemporary times allows for a discussion of how the relationship between art, politics, and society has evolved over time.