The Riveter (Bronx, New York), Ben Shahn, 1938 - Chapman-CWHS

The Riveter (Bronx, New York), Ben Shahn, 1938 (Smithsonian American Art Museum) By Henry Luong

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The Riveter: Biography

S Ben Shahn was born on

September 12, 1898 in Lithuania and is known for his works on social realism, political views and his book called The Shape of Content. S After moving over to New

York, he became a biology student in 1919 at New York University and then pursued art in 1921 at City College and at the National Academy of Design.

The Riveter: Biography Continued…

S After his marriage in 1924

to Tillie Goldstein, he traveled around North Africa and Europe studying illustrious artists. After coming back to New York he directed his own originality creating a more realist style and social dialogue.

The Riveter: Visual Analysis

S Tempera on Paperboard S Dimensions: 33 x 14 ¾

(83.8 x 37.5 cm) S Figure: male S Cityscape- New York-

Bronx S Occupation- industry-

construction S Study- Mural Study

The Riveter: Historical Context

S Ben Shahn drew this

during the great depression to portray Franklin D Roosevelt’s New Deal. Under this deal, it allowed new jobs for workers and one of the main jobs were construction workers.

The Riveter: Significance

S Ben Shahn’s theme was

that people and their talents are as important to keep as natural resources such as water and soil.