John Frenchloan’s artwork “Election Night” was completed in 1907 and shows New York City’s Herald Square brimming with people celebrating the results of an election. The artwork depicts several people happily blowing horns, throwing confetti, and waving flags – a typical reaction to the outcome of any election. The painting has become symbolic of the tumultuous nature of democracy, with excitement prevalent after something significant is decided.
Although “Election Night” was created more than a century ago, the painting’s message still rings true today – that elections are an event to be celebrated and cherished. It’s a reminder that democracy should be treasured for its ability to bring about change and create a sense of unity.
Another example of artwork displaying the joy associated with elections can be found in Paul Signac’s painting “Two Cypresses, Mistral, Opus 241,” which was completed in 1893. This painting shows a joyful couple embracing beneath two cypress trees while being blown around by the Mistral – a cold wind originating in Southern Europe near the Mediterranean Sea. The painting evokes a feeling of freedom due to its depiction of people celebrating the weather, reminiscent of unadulterated joy during an election season.
