Early Modern Era

 The Influence of The Great Depression on the Arts of the Early Modern Era 

The Great Depression, which began in 1929 and lasted through the 1930s, had a profound impact on all parts of society, including the arts. Artists responded by exploring themes of hardship, resilience, and social struggles. This exhibit showcases three pieces that reflect those influences.

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"American Gothic" By, Grant Wood

This piece was created in Iowa, USA by Grant Wood. Wood's iconic painting depicts a stern farmer and his daughter (assumed) in front of a Gothic-style house. The piece showcases the resilience and determination of rural Americans during the Great Depression. The somber expressions reflect the feelings of farmers during this time, along with their clothing and house symbolizing their hardwork. The muted earthy tones convey seriousness and the realistic forms emphasize their humanity. The placement of the figures creates a strong connection between them and their environment, symbolizing their struggle. The stern expression creates feelings of determination and resilience. 

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"Migrant Mother" By, Dorothea Lange

Lange took this powerful photograph in California, USA in 1939. The image captures a sorrowful mother with her children during the Great Depression. The stark, candid pose shows vulnerability to those affected by the Depression, encouraging viewers to confront the reality of social injustice. The black-and-white format enhances the emotional weight of the image and the close cropping of the subjects creates a sense of intimacy, this tightly framed image placement emphasizes their desperation and need for support. 

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"Approaching Storm" By, Thomas Hart Benton

Benton created this mural depicting ominous clouds threatening a rural landscape in the USA in 1934. The painting symbolizes the anxiety and uncertainty felt by many during the Great Depression, as well as the challenges faced by farmers. The sweeping clouds create a sense of movement and urgency. The exaggerated forms of the landscape create a sense of drama and tension. The placement of the storm clouds dominating the upper part of the canvas emphasizes the incoming threat, while the fields below show rural life. The anxiety and anticipation can be felt in the painting. 

Works Cited

Grant, Reg. “American Gothic | Painting by Wood | Britannica.” Www.britannica.com, 2023, www.britannica.com/topic/American-Gothic-painting-by-Wood.

Belden-Adams, Kris. “Dorothea Lange, Migrant Mother – Smarthistory.” Smarthistory.org, 14 Aug. 2023, smarthistory.org/dorothea-lange-migrant-mother/.

Benton, Thomas Hart. “Approaching Storm.” Smithsonian American Art Museum, 2025, americanart.si.edu/artwork/approaching-storm-1911.






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