The artwork titled “Drought Refugees” by the esteemed artist Dorothea Lange, created circa 1935, is a representation that aligns with the Social Realism art movement. It is a photographic piece that captures the stark reality of the socio-economic struggles of the time, embodying the genre’s emphasis on observation and empathy.
In the artwork, an individual, presumably one of the “Drought Refugees,” stands prominently in the foreground, looking thoughtful and wearied. Clad in worn attire and a wide-brimmed hat, he embodies the hardships endured by many during this era. Behind him, a modest camp is depicted, consisting of makeshift tents and a classic automobile, which further illustrates the nomadic and uncertain lifestyle led by those affected by the drought. The backdrop of the open landscape, slightly blurred, conveys both the remoteness and the vast challenges faced. This powerful image poignantly captures the essence of the suffering endured during this period, evoking a deep sense of empathy and understanding for the plight of those displaced by environmental and economic adversity.
