Degravitation 1937

Rockwell Kent made this lithograph titled 'Degravitation', its date is unknown. Kent was a socialist, and this print embodies a utopian desire to escape the strictures of modern life. The figures rising above the city suggest a rejection of urban existence, the constraints of capitalism, or perhaps even the laws of physics. Made in the United States, the print reflects early twentieth-century anxieties about industrialization and alienation. The imagery taps into socialist ideals and the pursuit of individual freedom. Kent’s work often incorporates themes of social justice and critiques of capitalist society. In this context, 'Degravitation' can be seen as a commentary on the oppressive structures of his time. To truly understand this work, it’s helpful to research the political climate and artistic movements, such as the Ashcan School. By examining these socio-political influences, we can better understand how art reflects, and also challenges, the norms of its time.