The artwork titled “Cars on the Road” was created by Dorothea Lange in the year 1936. This photograph falls within the Social Realism art movement. It exemplifies the genre of documentary photography, known for its vivid portrayal of the social conditions and everyday life, specifically during the Great Depression era in this case.
In the artwork, a vehicle is prominently featured, laden with various items, possibly belongings of the travelers, secured to its exterior. A man seated in the vehicle gazes solemnly out of the window, his expression thoughtful and perhaps burdened by the weight of the journey or circumstances. The vehicle, appearing worn and overloaded, signifies the arduous nature of the travels faced by many during this time period. The composition and shading of the photograph effectively capture the somber and reflective mood, characteristic of Lange’s oeuvre, providing a poignant glimpse into the lives of those affected by economic hardship.
