Kim post 2

Kimberly Hambright

Available for purchase at allposters.com, the first image is one that I believe leads the nation forward. The aircrafts in the picture are arranged in a way similar to a “flying V” that we know to be extremely effective for migratory birds. The exhaust expelled from the planes appears in patriotic colors, appearing to unite the aircrafts under the title of “American.” The statement, “UNITED WE STAND If we are strong, our strength will speak for itself. John F. Kennedy,” placed at the bottom of the image clarifies to the audience exactly what feelings the work is meant to evoke. In today’s society, the purpose of the image is to unite all Americans with one common agenda. The poster evokes patriotism in the hearts of the audience as they notice the grandeur of the aircrafts both in the air and in the water’s reflection. At a time of war, a poster like this is meant to strengthen support for the cause and for the troops. Through the use of airplanes and a desolate background, the picture sells the idea that America is strong, and as a unified nation, will come out on top.

I believe that Plato would be in favor of a piece like this. Without using heavy propaganda, the artist meant to evoke a feeling of brotherhood and compassion among the people. The idea was not to question the rules and regulations of society, but instead to strengthen faith in the government and their decisions. The poster urges the people to stand together as one, unafraid of war and unafraid to wear their country’s colors proudly.

In Barbara Kruger’s contemporary piece “Repeat After Me,” a strong statement is made about society. A molded doll holds up hypnotist’s circle in a representation of the oppression of government officials. The doll appears to be made of clay, possibly portraying that he was molded by society into the cookie-cutter design of an ideal citizen. This “molded” being holds up a hypnotist pinwheel, in an effort to transform his audience into like-minded law abiding ideal citizens as well. The brainwashing device acts as a ridicule of modern society, claiming that no one has a mind of their own, but instead, all conform to the norms of society, afraid to have their own opinions, and afraid to make changes. The image calls for realization more than anything. The piece is meant to make its audience look at their own life and realize the ways in which they conform to society without thinking for themselves.

This is one piece that I think Plato would have had a problem with. It asks the reader to break off from society and think outside the box. By doing this, the whole structure of a dictatorship is threatened. A government ruled by one person can only work as long as its people are content or controlled, and because Barbara Kruger’s piece asks its audience to rebel and break out of the norm, it could be considered a threat to the State. If enough people in the Republic were exposed to artwork like this, a rebellion could break out and threaten the governmental structure.