Question

Many wpa posters were created to promote new deal programs - in this case the rural electrification administration. how does this poster's simplistic design convey the program's goal?

Answer 1

The posters made by the Rural Electrification Administration during the New Deal Era is simple but ingeniously designed by Lester Beall. The posters look simple because at that time REA was a newly formed agency and so have to work to appeal to people. Electrification of the rural areas would improve farm productivity, so the posters features conveniences like electric lights, radio, and running water – things people will get when their regions have access to electricity. With a patriotic striped background to imply that electrification is a national interest, the posters worked well to help people became familiar with the agency’s existence and purpose.

Answer 2

The Second New Deal included new programs to extend federal aid and stimulate the nation’s economy, such as the Rural Electrification Administration.

In the decade of 1930s, rural America had no electricity and clear water. The Rural Electrification Administration hired Lester Beall, a graphic designer that created a series of posters describing the benefits of electrification for the communities. The poster created in 1937 is shielded at Rochester Institute of Technology Cary Graphic Arts Collection.

The poster simplistic design shows a house with white windows as if there were electricity in the rooms. Three stripes at the top of the poster exemplifiy the expansion of electricity throughout the United States, symbolizing the stripes of the flag for a better identification with the program. The poster wanted people to be aware of the benefits of the rural electrification administration