Poster exhibition on "America at Work" features loans from DeFilippo family

At a time when our nation is struggling to recover from a severe recession, the Harn Museum of Art presents a timely exhibition examining the American workforce from a previous generation. On view through September 5, America at Work: Art and Propaganda in the Early-20th Century features 30 Mather Work Incentive posters from the mid-1920s designed to motivate workers, improve productivity, and strengthen morale. The lithographs address workplace behavior with bright, bold graphics and messages such as “Don’t make excuses, make good,” and “Let’s play to win.” The posters are on generous loan from Ronald, Elizabeth, and Lauren DeFilippo, owners of Gainesville’s popular Swamp Restaurant.

Complementing the posters is a selection of about 20 prints from the Harn Museum’s collection that were created during the Great Depression of the 1930s and 40s. Some address negative aspects of work, unemployment and homelessness. Others present themes drawn from everyday life and humorous situations, reinforcing the idea that life goes on in spite of great economic hardship.

Admission to the Harn Museum of Art is free. For more information visit www.harn.ufl.edu or call 352-392-9826.