James Montgomery Flagg, "i Want You (uncle Sam) Vs. Rolf Armstrong How Am I Doing?

James Montgomery Flagg, "I Want You (Uncle Sam)”

Why did the artist choose this particular composition?

James Montgomery Flagg chose a poster for multiple reasons centered on the controversies involving the First World War. ‘’I Want You’’ converged multiple messages for the Americans that would be easily communicated through visual impressions. The artist conspicuously intended to address the sensitive issues regarding an impending war. He was cognizant of possible fallout in the government and the public. As such, the composition sought to unify the Americans based on their identity and heritage. The graphical composition, unlike the written messages, would offer individual interpretation such that the people would not feel pressurized or manipulated.

Why these values?

The poster personifies the fundamental values embodied in the artist’s prowess. It was necessary to be cautionary, albeit the need to take drastic measures. It explains the use of graphics as opposed to publications of broadcasts. The criticality of the values chiefly regards being cognizant of the sensitivities surrounding a political crisis. It called for methodical approaches to facilitate saving as many lives of the Americans as possible, and upholding the sovereignty of the country.

What did the artist want the viewer to look at first?

The glaring and pointing impression in the poster implies that the artists wanted the viewer to look at themselves first. The painting establishes Uncle Sam, the personified figure, pointing strategically forward with the index finger. While the audience comes to terms with the tip of the finger, a glance of the poster provokes the observer to rethink their position on the message of the artist.

What is the main emotion the artist was trying to convey?

The artist was trying to convey patriotism as the fundamental message, given the most critical needs of the country at the time of modifying the painting. The United States government wanted as many people as possible to volunteer in the impending warfare.

Was the artist successful, and why?

The artist was highly successful mainly due to an unprecedented amount of copies made of the poster. His work also played a significant role as millions of Americans professed patriotism for their country.

Rolf Armstrong, "How Am I Doing?"

Why did the artist choose this particular composition?

Rolf Armstrong chose the particular composition as it allowed him to effectively combine the aesthetics of women with the splendor of art. No other medium was appropriate enough to manifest the high degree of self-expression

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