Nineteenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

Art, unlike propaganda, allows the public to discuss political agendas through a visual medium. Art can be used as a tool to articulate the public’s political wants and needs, therefore, being an agent in a democratic government. Although the relationship between art and democracy occurs before 1945, this literature solely focuses on art in the modern and post-modern era, a period that experienced great political activism and emerging art forms. Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art movements of the 1950s, had direct inspiration from the American economy – domestically and internationally. In both instances the government utilized art that was inspired by the people to support political agendas. The art of the 1960’s sparked discussion surrounding the Civil Rights issues. America not only faced inequality with race, but also of sex. Artists challenged these social norms through art, which led to changes to law and policy eliminating discriminated based on sex and race. On a larger scale, art tests the American democracy on the national and international arena. Artists can use the visual medium to send a message to the government and the government has the option to respond. Visual art is necessary for a democracy to rightly function as it intends to influence, critique, and propel civic agendas and priorities by and for the general public. For a democracy to function, it must continue to grow and adapt to the needs of the people. Art is a powerful tool for a democracy to rightly function.