Pin-up in Pink and Blue 

This pin-up was painted by Arthur Sarnoff, an American artist known for his commercial illustrations. In mid-20th century America, pin-up art became a pervasive cultural phenomenon. Popular among soldiers during wartime, and later adorning calendars and magazines, these images reflected and reinforced the social values of the time. The focus on idealized, often sexualized, images of women speaks volumes about the gender dynamics of the era, and the institutional role of art to reflect this. While seemingly harmless, pin-up art contributed to a culture where women were objectified. Understanding this work requires us to look into popular culture, advertising, and the socio-political context of the time. These types of images can serve as primary resources, revealing the cultural attitudes that shaped both art and society.