Mid Modern Exhibit of the Influence of World War Two
Mid Modern Exhibit of the Influence of World War Two
Introduction
As I touched upon in my last installment and throughout this blog, I’m a huge fan of history, especially the World War eras. So, after choosing to highlight World War One and its influence on art last week, it only felt right to pick World War Two for this. Just as the war changed technology and borders, it also left a lasting and meaningful mark on art. This can be seen in myriad ways and perspectives even today. Everything from changing art styles and themes to the rise of new and influential artistic practitioners is on display throughout this reverting era. Hopefully, these changes will be as apparent and interesting to you as they are to me throughout the rest of this issue. With that out of the way, it is time to look at my first artist, the amazing Allen Say.
Allen Say and The Bicycle Man
Literature and art have always gone hand in hand for me, so I knew I had to highlight Say’s amazing writing and artwork given the chance. Although this work was published in 1982 Japan, two years after the end of the mid modern period, it is thoroughly drenched in that era’s sensibilities and themes. Mr. Say was born in Yokohama Japan and spent these formative years growing up under the American occupation, something that is very apparent in his work. Not only does Say’s work give insight into a World War Two perspective that is rarely seen or talked about (occupation era Japan), but it does so from the Japanese point of view. This excellent tale recounts two American soldier's efforts to entertain a group of Japanese school children during the student's sports festival with bike tricks and is a book that I would recommend anyone to read.
You didn’t come here for a literature review, however, as it is now time to look at which art elements Mr. Say chose to utilize. Right off the bat, line can be seen at play all across both pieces adding both tone and form. This is in unison with the expert appearance of optical texture. This element really brings the pictures to life for me, adding a vividness to everything from the soldier’s meticulous uniforms to the surrounding scenery. Finally, the use of color in these works adds a festive and lighthearted aura that is incredibly fitting for the depicted scenes. When viewing the art, I cannot help but feel some of this emotion making for an overall superb job by Allen Say.
Jackson Pollock’s Abstract Expressionism Through a World War Two Lens
War
Although I knew the legendary Jackson Pollock grew up and experienced both World Wars (although not from a soldier's perspective) I had no idea that he drew influence and inspiration from these events. The two works of his that I will be showcasing today are, War “made in 1947, with dimensions of 21 by 26 inches, now resides in the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center” (The Met). This work, created after the end of World War Two, depicts the universal monstrosities of conflict. War is extremely special for several reasons, first and foremost for being the only drawing he ever titled as well as for being a non-drip related piece. The second of Pollock’s pieces that I will be presenting, Number 1A, 1948, “was painted in 1948 New York, standing at 68 by 104 inches, with the work now sitting at the Museum of Modern Art” (MoMA). Although not directly tied to any one influence, this piece partially represents the rebuilding world after the terrible effects of the war.
The strongest artistic elements presented in these two works in my opinion, is easily color. Although used differently in each piece the end result is equally impactful. In War the colors are chaotic and wild representing madness and cruelty of battle. While on the other end of the spectrum, Number 1A, 1948 color scheme is much more subdued with spots of color showing restoration of the planet. Line further adds to the feeling of turmoil and mayhem leaning into havoc of war. Mr. Pollock managed to capture these feelings incredibly while staying true to his abstract based style. Tone makes a rather unconventional in these works contrasting light backgrounds against the content of the paintings resulting in a darker appearance reminiscent to Caravaggio’s Basket of Fruit.
Tom Lea and his Work for LIFE
Bloody Nose Ridge
Tom Lea is the only artist from this installment that I was unaware of before writing. I’m most certainly glad that I was able to learn about him for this assignment, however, because his background combined artistic prowess makes for an incredibly interesting individual. Tom was a war correspondent and a pioneer of modern-day conflict painting. He traveled all over the Atlantic and Pacific theaters sketching the events that he witnesses to be published in the LIFE magazine. Considering how numerous and varied Tom’s work is, it was hard to narrow my selection down to just two works. Finally, I landed on the 1944 pieces Bloody Nose Ridge and The Fighting Hornet for their intense and iconic appearance. These works and more are currently on display at National World War Two Musuem and is something I would love to see in person.
Something that I highly enjoyed from of these pieces was how shape was skillfully applied to create a vivid and three-dimensional scene. Whether it was a tank, battleship, or aircraft, this element draws the viewer in and truly immerses them. Color is another critical element to this success. This element is on display in things such as the muted and dirty brown of the marine’s uniforms and the eye grabbing blue of the ocean. Without fail Mr. Lea doesn't miss a chance to enrich these scenes. Lastly, texture is the finishing touch of realism to complete these two works.
Conclusion
All in all, this blog was remarkably interesting to research and write. I was able to highlight both works I already knew and enjoyed while also finding new and unique pieces. This culminated in a great writing experience and new knowledge and artists to pay attention to in the future. Thanks for reading and see you all next time!
Sources
The Met. “Jackson Pollock: War.” The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1 Jan. 1970, www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/482445.
MoMA. Jackson Pollock. Number 1A, 1948. 1948 | Moma, www.moma.org/collection/works/78699. Accessed 29 July 2024.
I also used Jackson Pollock's work to illustrate war, though not nearly in the same way. His works really open to interpretation. I hadn't seen anything from like "War" before. It is much more explicit in theme than his usual. "The Fighting Hornet", though war-themed, is kind of pretty. I like to colors in it. I like how you found a WWII influence in three different ways, the selected pairs of art are each unique and show the influence in different ways.
ReplyDeleteHi Vaughan,
ReplyDeleteYour third and fourth piece you presented were so chaotic but yet so appealing. As the War canvas looks like a little kid drew it. I totally agree with your analysis on the elements of the colors used there , chaotic, wild and unorganized which describes war perfectly. At first glance of Number 1 I have no idea what I'm looking at. I tried to self analyze it before reading your blog but nothing came to mind. I have to agree that “rebuilding life after war” fits perfectly. As of course I have no personal experience I can only imagine the destruction and the thoughts of “where do I even start” on cleaning up such a battlefield.
I am glad to have ran into your blog. Anything dealing with Japan gets me excited. I am currently stationed here and I love the people and culture. I have been in Japan at two bases for a total of seven years so far.
ReplyDeleteThe "Bicycle Man" is one that hit me a little personally. I like to volunteer at the local international center and getting the chance to meet with the locals who want to understand American culture as much as I want to understand theirs. My bicycle trick was smoking a whole packer brisket and giving them a chance to try American BBQ. They could not stop talking about it to all their friends when we brought them back.
Just know that American stationed here love being involved with the community and are always working with children to show them that we truly are thankful for allowing us to be guests in their country. The second work with the soldier in uniform reminds me of myself walking around in my blues and waving to all the children. Even the trees on the rolling hills in the background looks like the area I am at.
Looking at "Bloody Nose Ridge" reminds me of the movie Hacksaw Ridge. In Okinawa there is a site that pays tribute to Desmond Doss at the actual event of Hacksaw Ridge. The tall mountain structure behind the man looks just like that. The face of the man expresses just how defeated they felt at that very specific event. It was arduous and very scary. The men were tired and battle worn.
You picked out great works and your analytical insight on these works shows your passion for World War history and the appreciation for the works that came from that era. Amazing job good sir.
Hi Vaughan
ReplyDeleteYour art blog delves into the captivating world of mid-century modern art, exploring the masterpieces and movements that defined this influential era. From the clean lines and geometric shapes of abstract expressionism to the vibrant colors and playful compositions of pop art, your insightful posts offer a deep dive into the key artists and artworks that continue to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts today. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for the subject, your art blog is a treasure trove of knowledge and appreciation for the mid-century modern art movement. Whether you're a seasoned art connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of art, Vaughan's blog is sure to provide a rich and engaging exploration of this iconic period in art history.
I just checked out your blog post on the influence of World War II on mid-century modern art, and I have to say, it's super interesting! Your breakdown of how artists like Allen Say, Jackson Pollock, and Tom Lea were affected by the war really gave me a new perspective on their work. I especially liked how you connected historical events with the artistic styles and techniques they used. Your passion for both art and history really shines through. Great read!
ReplyDelete