This poster was made by the Federal Arts Project (FAP), the art arm of the Workers Progress Administration (WPA) to advertise an art show they were putting on. At the core of Roosevelt's “New Deal”, the WPA was an ambitious plan to revitalise America through providing jobs to the unemployed. One of the many ways they accomplished this was through the hiring of artists to paint murals and create other artwork for the public to enjoy. Art shows, like the one this poster advertises, served as an escape for the public from the drudgery of the great depression. This poster is especially striking due to its patriotic symbolism, including the combination of the american flag, the bald eagle, and red white and blue that is so indicative of our nation. It is a representation of the american spirit and served as an icon for Roosevelt's programs, bringing hope and patriotism to America's people even during those bleak times.
FEDERAL ARTS PROGRAM POSTER
FAP Poster, WPA (1936)