This vintage WPA poster, “Smoke over Des Moines – WHY,” highlights the environmental challenges Des Moines faced as industrialization efforts grew in the 1930’s and 1940’s. Created as part of the WPA’s art program, the poster aimed to educate and engage citizens on the pressing matter of industrial smoke in the community. Reproductions of the poster are available here.
The poster promotes a public forum at Roosevelt High School in Des Moines, where the community gathered to discuss smoke pollution with the Smoke Commissioner on January 27th at 8pm. This poster and the subsequent meeting aimed to educate and engage citizens on the pressing matter of industrial smoke in the community.
This piece of WPA memorabilia, a vivid splash of yellow and red on a grey canvas, is more than just an eye-catching design from the Works Progress Administration’s art program. It’s a call to action, as smoke pollution was a critical concern in industrial cities like Des Moines at the time. The poster’s bold, block letters and dark, swirling smog effectively capture the viewers attention while also summarizing the issue at hand. The poster also serves as a tangible reminder of the power of art to raise awareness and effect change.
Offering a glimpse into Des Moines’ past, this vintage art piece encourages us to reflect on the importance of community engagement and the role of art in promoting social and environmental progress. The image was restored by KNOWOL. Reproductions of the restored poster are available in our store.
