Step into the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s latest exhibition and explore how the 1940s, a decade marked by global conflict and transformation, ignited a creative explosion in art, fashion, and design.
The 1940s were a decade of upheaval and innovation. As the world grappled with war and its aftermath, artists and designers responded with works that reflected resilience, adaptation, and a reimagining of aesthetics. The Philadelphia Museum of Art’s exhibition, “Boom: Art and Design in the 1940s,” offers a comprehensive look at this transformative era, showcasing over 250 pieces from its own collection, many of which are on display for the first time.
The exhibition explores various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, fashion, and furniture. Notable highlights include Jackson Pollock’s early abstract works, Georgia O’Keeffe’s evocative landscapes, and Pablo Picasso’s “The Dove,” symbolizing peace in a post-war context. Fashion pieces, such as Elsa Schiaparelli’s designs with oversized pockets, reflect the practical needs of wartime, allowing women to carry essentials like gas masks without handbags. American designers like Claire McCardell also feature prominently, illustrating the shift towards ready-to-wear fashion that defined the American Look.
Design innovations born out of necessity are evident throughout the exhibition. The use of materials like parachute straps in Jens Risom’s chairs and the development of molded plywood techniques by Charles and Ray Eames highlight how wartime constraints led to lasting advancements in design. The works of Japanese American artists George Nakashima and Isamu Noguchi, created during their internment, underscore the profound impact of adversity on artistic expression.
“Boom: Art and Design in the 1940s” is on view at the Philadelphia Museum of Art until September 1, 2025. This exhibition not only presents a rich tapestry of creative output from a pivotal decade but also invites reflection on how art and design serve as responses to societal challenges.
Exhibition Details:
Exhibition: Boom: Art and Design in the 1940s
Location: Philadelphia Museum of Art
Dates: May 4 – September 1, 2025
For more information, visit philamuseum.org.
