The artwork titled “December 7th – Remember!!” was created by Charles Alston in 1943 and belongs to the Social Realism art movement. This artwork is a poster genre piece, which emphatically encapsulates a significant historical event.
The artwork depicts a moment of intense conflict and action during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Central to the composition is a figure identified as “Dorie Miller,” heroically manning an anti-aircraft gun amidst the chaos. The background portrays a scene of devastation with ships in disarray, billowing smoke, and falling aircraft, effectively capturing the turmoil and destruction of the attack. The text “December 7th 1941 – Remember!!” at the bottom of the poster serves as a poignant reminder of the magnitude of this historical event. Alston employs vigorous lines and a monochromatic palette to convey a sense of urgency and gravity, evoking an emotional response and emphasizing the importance of remembering this day in history.
