Man Breaking Through Wall c. 1970s

Jack Davis made this image of a man breaking through a wall using watercolor and ink, sometime during his career as a cartoonist. The comedic style, with exaggerated features and dynamic action, reflects Davis's background in publications like Mad magazine. But what does this image mean? It could symbolize overcoming obstacles, the pursuit of progress, or even the disruption of the status quo. Made in the United States, this image resonates with the American values of ambition and individualism. The man's business suit suggests a corporate context, perhaps critiquing or celebrating the drive to succeed in the capitalist system. Is he breaking free from corporate constraints, or aggressively pursuing a business goal? To truly understand this artwork, we need to delve into Davis's biography and the cultural context of his time. Examining publications he worked for, alongside social and political events might reveal the intended message behind this energetic image. In the end, art like this serves as a mirror reflecting society's values and anxieties.