Art created during the early 20th century introduced unique subjects that reflected the interests of the artists, their specific regional audiences, and the impact of global events. In consideration of the images*:
- Charles Sheeler, ‘American Landscape’ (1930):
- This painting was created amid the ‘Great Depression’ – how might one interpret this image as ‘hopeful’ or encouraging confidence in America’s future at this difficult point in its history?
- David Alfaro Siqueiros, portrait of Emiliano Zapata (1931):
- Zapata was a popular leader during the Mexican Revolution; although this portrait presents the subject as a recognizable character, how has Siqueiros (a Mexican artist) also rendered Zapata in the guise of an epic ‘hero?’ Consider ‘expressionistic’ features (such
as the treatments of atmosphere and color), the environment in which the subject is
placed, and his perspective/orientation in relation to the viewer.
Sample Solution