WPA artists appealed to the common man by depicting glimpses of everyday life. These images take place indoors, offering a certain intimacy between the subject matter and the viewer. In these prints and photographs, the artists demonstrated their democratic vision through the depiction of common people performing their daily routines. John Vachon and Marion Post Wolcott’s photographs counter the work of New York-centric printmakers to expand and adjust their depictions of working-class life. All of these artists imbued their images with the notion that art is not a rare commodity but rather an integral part of everyday life for the masses to enjoy.

Margot E. Yale, Class of 2017
Joseph F. McCrindle Intern

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