Assignment task: Select (1) one of the following essay topics and write at least two paragraphs single-spaced
1. Some recent artists and art critics have been critical of social protest work such as the photographs by Lewis Hine of child labor because this work did not change the existing power structures, even if it did change public opinion about child labor and lead to reforms. The wealthy remained insulated, powerful, and privilege, able to gaze upon people like the mill workers, who cannot see them in return. The wealthy might be moved to "reform" the situation out of their benevolence. Or they might not. What do you think of criticisms such as this?
2. With protest art, the artist often has a clear political message to deliver, presents it in a persuasive way, and hopes to cause change. Is that different from propaganda? Can propaganda be art?
3. Who is the usual audience for protest art? Is the art reaching a broad enough audience to be effective in creating awareness and social change?