Wartime Art: A Study of Political Propaganda and Individual Expression in American Commercial and Combat Art during World War II

Department Chair

Andrew D. Nicholls, Ph.D., Professor of History

Author

Jennifer M. Wilcott, State University of New York, Buffalo State CollegeFollow

Date of Award

5-2013

Access Control

Open Access

Degree Name

History, M.A.

Department

History and Social Studies Education Department

Advisor

Nancy Weekly, M.A., Lecturer of History and Museum Studies

Department Home page

http://history.buffalostate.edu/

First Reader

Cynthia A. Conides, Ph.D., Associate Professor of History and Museum Studies

Abstract

This thesis will explore the mediums and functions of American art during World War II. The purpose of exploring art during World War II is not simply to provide an overview of the multiple media of art produced during the war, but to investigate the role that commercial artwork and combat soldiers’ artwork had on the lasting interpretation of the war. Themes addressed are propaganda, the role of posters, comic books, and cartoons along with their influence on American society at the time. Further analysis examines the role of three artists: Howard Brodie, Edward Reep, and Robert N. Blair. Their motivations and contributions to the documentation of World War II will be discussed.

Recommended Citation

Wilcott, Jennifer M., "Wartime Art: A Study of Political Propaganda and Individual Expression in American Commercial and Combat Art during World War II" (2013). History Theses. 17.
https://digitalcommons.buffalostate.edu/history_theses/17