Scathing social commentary, unmatched wit and playful illustration—these have long been the cornerstones of the distinctly American art form of political cartoons. Now, you’ll be able to explore it in all of its glory at the Old State Capitol’s new exhibit, “Lines with Power and Purpose: Editorial Cartoons.” The exhibit highlights cartoons from the so-called “Golden Age” of print journalism (the first half of the 20th century), featuring the work of six Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonists, among other acclaimed artists in the medium.
Through the work displayed at the exhibit, curators aim to convey the social and political climate of the time through deceptively simple yet biting editorial cartoons. Some examples of the topics touched on include World Wars I and II, the Great Depression, presidential elections and more. In such a tumultuous era, it stands to reason that political cartoonists of the time played such an important role in the lives of average Americans.
While the exhibit officially opens this Thursday, its free opening reception will take place Wednesday, July 11, at 5:30 p.m. Here, attendees will be treated to a talk by local political cartoonist Walt Handelsman.
