Propaganda Art "Propaganda is the deliberate, systematic attempt to shape perceptions, manipulate cognitions, and direct behavior to achieve a response that furthers the desired intent of the propagandist." Source: Garth S. Jowett and Victoria O'Donnell, Propaganda And Persuasion, 4th edition, 2006.

Essential Questions: How does the art of Propaganda help influence an audience? What are some of the characteristics of Propaganda Art? In what context is propaganda most influential/effective?

Propaganda art is art that makes a statement that tries to influence the views or beliefs of its viewers.

A political statement in the 2004 election that was against the policies of George W. Bush. Image is catchy and humorous Notice the sarcasm in the slogan

An example of Soviet propaganda during WWII. Caption states, “The people and the army are one.” Use of symbols Expression on the faces Reminder about the importance of unity for a cause

Propaganda often has political connotations and a party bias. Use of symbols Slogan makes you think about the issues

It is most commonly seen in times of war—to enliven patriotic spirit and to paint a grizzly picture of the enemy. This example draws on a popular movie. Appeals to pop culture

Images themselves are often grotesque and make comparisons to real-life objects to illustrate a slogan.

Characteristics: Brightly colored Effective use of the space Attention grabbing slogans/images Use of powerful symbols Attempt to influence a person’s views

The Project: Pick a current or past event for which to create a propaganda poster. One of the World Wars Civil Rights in the U.S. Nuclear Armament Genocide or Ethnic Cleansing Drugs War in Iraq/Afghanistan Racism Taxation Free Speech Abortion Terrorism National Pride

Planning your design: Consider the context and/or point of view of the audience. Where? When? Why? How? How will you try to influence your audience? Think about the use of color, powerful images, what types of lettering, slogans, etc.

Restrictions: Media is open, but use a sturdy surface— like mat board. Size should be 11 X 14” or larger Reproduced images can be part of your design (like photocopies or photos), but alter them. Don’t make a cut-out collage. Paint, computer art, stencils, ink pens, cut paper, etc.

Grade will be based on: Power of the image Effective use of the visual elements of art Craftsmanship Creativity with theme