The two articles I read are about the use of art as a form of propaganda in both the United States and the Soviet Union/Russia during the Cold War. The United States was more focused on the emphasis of human emotion in Abstract Expressionism, while the Soviet Union liked the ideologies of Socialist Realism. The difference between the intentions of these art forms generates this question asked in one of the articles: Did one form of propaganda express greater legitimacy? To answer this question, we must first delve into what each country was trying to achieve and what they actually achieved through their uses of these forms of art.
The main goal of these countries during the Cold War was to try and find a form of "warfare" that did not result in death and destruction. Art was a brilliant way to solve this issue, and both the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. chose which forms would suit them the best. In the U.S., the CIA and the government played a role in the exhibition, distribution, and selling of these works of art. Although it had to be kept relatively secret, the country had great success with this method. Russia's specifics were never mentioned, but they despised the individualistic nature of Abstract Expressionism. The answer to the question above cannot really be answered, because both countries somewhat succeeded in their efforts. I found the two of these articles incredibly interesting because it is amazing how art was used as a weapon during the Cold War. I wish there was more written about Russia, because the articles focused mainly on the U.S. and its use of Abstract Expressionism. Other than wanting more information on Russia, I thoroughly enjoyed reading these articles. Just like how Rococo was a huge movement in France, the use of these forms of art in these countries expressed more about them than just acting as a form of propaganda. The choices made by these countries gives insight into their individual ideas and ways of life within them. I am extremely happy that the CIA was and is all about art, and that I know art can be used and expressed even on a global scale. This week I had to change my grid because I altered my photo. I didn't include a photo because it almost looks the exact same as last week.
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AuthorGrace Barron Archives
June 2018
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