Streik c. 1923

Karl Wiener created the artwork "Streik," the German word for "strike," sometime between 1901 and 1949. This compelling image speaks volumes about the historical and social context of labor movements during the early to mid-20th century. The stark silhouette of a worker leaning on a shovel, set against a backdrop of red and geometric shapes, immediately conveys a sense of defiance and solidarity. Wiener's choice of bold colors and simplified forms amplifies the emotional weight of the scene. The worker, an everyman, becomes a symbol of the collective power of the working class, challenging the status quo. What resonates most profoundly is the suggestion of resistance against the dehumanizing forces of industrialization. “Streik” isn't just about labor disputes, it's about dignity, identity, and the courage to stand up for oneself and for one another. The artwork stands as a timeless reminder of the ongoing struggle for fair treatment and economic justice.