Turkey Roost 1940

Anne Steele Marsh created this print, Turkey Roost, using linocut. It depicts turkeys roosting on a structure under the artificial light of an electrical lamp. Marsh was part of a community of artists in the first half of the 20th century in the United States who were deeply influenced by the Great Depression. There was a public role for art in this period, particularly for artists who documented everyday life. Marsh’s image of turkeys is not as glamorous as some artworks, but reflects a fascination with farm life. Linocut was a relatively inexpensive medium compared to painting in oil and so was a democratic tool for artists making work during a period of economic hardship. Historians study the economic conditions that shape art. We also use primary documents like letters or diaries to learn more about an artist’s views on social issues. Art is not made in a vacuum and research like this sheds light on its meaning.