A Time of War and a Time of Peace 1941

Editor: This is Roloff Beny's "A Time of War and a Time of Peace" at the Harvard Art Museums. Its stark contrasts and geometric shapes give me a sense of conflict and resolution. What historical context might inform this artwork? Curator: Given the title, it's tempting to seek direct correlations to specific wars or peace movements. Instead, I see Beny exploring the public's expectation of artists to comment on such global events. The abstract imagery avoids explicit political statements. Editor: So, it's more about the artist's role in society rather than the events themselves? Curator: Precisely. Beny seems to question the artist's burden to represent complex socio-political realities. What do you make of the composition? Editor: It feels unresolved, with the two halves almost battling for dominance. Curator: I agree; that tension underscores Beny's commentary on the art world's response to conflict and resolution. Thanks for helping me think about this work in new ways!