Unknown Artist
President Mao's thinking shall always shine (Cultural
Revolution Propaganda Poster), 1973
Offset Lithograph
2013.1.30
Art as Propaganda
August 26 - February 9, 2025
Peeler Art Center, Second floor Display Case
For centuries, art has been used as propaganda, spreading political messages through vibrant colors and cultural iconography. From as early as 515 B.C.E., with the creation of Persia’s Behistun Inscription, to now, propaganda has helped nations win wars, supported dictators and democracies, and spurred political agendas. The propaganda posters in this case are from Russia, China, and the United States, and they show how art has been used to promote agendas and how different governments implement this centuries-old tool. Curated by DePauw University student Abigail Fathauer class of 2025.