American People #15: Hide Little Children 1966

Faith Ringgold made "American People #15: Hide Little Children" using acrylic paint on canvas. The smooth surface of the acrylic allows for vibrant, flat areas of color, creating a striking contrast between the figures and the dense, leafy background. The application of acrylic is direct. The figures seem to emerge from the canvas, their presence both immediate and subtly masked by the thick foliage. The painting technique, while seemingly straightforward, is loaded with cultural significance. The figures, presumably children, are hidden, suggesting a need for protection or concealment. Ringgold's choice of medium and technique serves to emphasize the content of the work and bring it to life. The work challenges traditional distinctions between representation and abstraction, while also embedding the artwork with social context. It reminds us that the most effective art often speaks clearly, yet resonates deeply.