Share

Some of the best artwork doesn't necessarily start out with the intention of being placed in a museum for all to see. However, many of the popular paintings from the 1940s that were used to promote war support efforts are becoming historical pieces of art. The Fairfield Citizen reported that the Fairfield Museum is opening an exhibit to display these impactful pieces that began as advertisements.

Mobilizing the homefront
​According to the news source, Norman Rockwell, Jean Carlu, H. Price and Victor Keppler are just some of the well-known artists of the time whose drawings are on display in the new exhibit. Titled "Mobilizing the Homefront: Posters from World War II," the opening of the gallery is a timely event that celebrates the 70-year anniversary of the Allies' victory over Nazi Germany. It features many of the most famous posters used to drive participation and support for the war.

Jean Carlu's "Give 'em Both Barrels" poster is a famous illustration of a soldier holding a gun and a factory worker carrying a tool used to make war supplies. They stand together, symbolizing that participation on the homefront was crucial to America's victory. Americans could invest in war bonds, plant victory gardens and participate in other activities to show their support and help their country.

The importance of teaching
These posters give viewers an interesting look at what it was like to live during World War II. Perhaps even more important is what they can teach the future generations. They show viewers that supporting the troops is crucial when a country is at war, and it takes the assistance of an entire community to successfully return home. It can be challenging for veterans to readjust to life after service, and coming home to a crowd that supports them is invaluable.

In fact, Veterans Coming Home, an organization that honors those who serve, reports on all of the different ways communities welcome their veterans back home. Throughout the nation, media outlets are working with the organization to highlight local stories and bring awareness to the importance of supporting the troops. Radio shows like "StoryCorps Military Voices Initiative" and "Breaking Ground: Military Children" give personal accounts of how military life doesn't just affect those who serve. It impacts the children, spouses, neighbors and colleagues of those in the armed forces.