War Series: Alert 1947

Jacob Lawrence’s “War Series: Alert” is made with tempera paint on board, a technique often associated with early Renaissance painting. Lawrence adopted it for its matte finish and the way it lends itself to flat, graphic shapes. Notice how Lawrence uses a limited palette of blues, browns, and blacks. The tempera gives these colors a chalky quality, enhancing the sense of urgency and tension. The painting depicts a figure descending a ladder, perhaps during a wartime drill or emergency. The visible brushstrokes and the somewhat crude application of the paint emphasize the handmade nature of the work. It’s a stark contrast to the industrial subject matter – the suggestion of urban architecture, the implied threat of war. Lawrence’s choice of materials and techniques adds a layer of social commentary. He highlights the human experience amidst the cold machinery of conflict. The artwork shows how materials and making processes are vital to the overall impact, challenging traditional notions of fine art by bringing in elements of craft and social awareness.