Mao 1972

Sigmar Polke made this Mao in Germany using mixed media, reflecting a critical engagement with political imagery in post-war Europe. Polke, like many artists of his generation, questioned the role of images in shaping public opinion, particularly in the context of mass media and Cold War politics. The image of Mao Zedong, a highly charged symbol of communist ideology, is presented here through layers of visual noise, suggesting the complexities and contradictions inherent in such representations. The use of popular imagery and techniques, such as the Ben-Day dots, points to the influence of Pop Art, but with a darker, more critical edge. Polke’s work invites us to consider how political figures are constructed and consumed, and how art can challenge the institutional forces that perpetuate these narratives. To fully appreciate Polke's Mao, explore the media coverage of Mao's image in 1960s West Germany and how it influenced cultural perceptions of communism. Understanding the social and institutional context is key to unlocking its meaning.