F-111 1965

James Rosenquist made "F-111", a painting that envelops us in a critical reflection on postwar America. The painting emerged during a period marked by the Vietnam War. Rosenquist, who had previously worked as a billboard painter, brought that scale and visual language to his fine art. In "F-111," Rosenquist merges images of war with symbols of domesticity and consumerism. The F-111 fighter plane is juxtaposed with images of spaghetti, tires, and a smiling baby under a hairdryer, creating a jarring yet poignant commentary on the intermingling of war and everyday life. It challenges the traditional narratives of heroism and progress often associated with military endeavors. The artwork creates an emotional tension by presenting these contrasting elements on the same plane, asking us to confront the uncomfortable realities of a society deeply involved in war, yet seemingly detached from its consequences. "It's like being in a shopping center and having an airplane fly through," said Rosenquist, capturing the sense of disjunction. Ultimately, “F-111” serves as both a mirror reflecting societal contradictions and a window inviting us to reassess our roles within this complex landscape.