The Great Depression changed a lot in society, including art. One style that was affected was called Art Deco. Although Art Deco started in the 1920s, it changed a lot in the 1930s because of the tough economic times.

1. Changing Themes:

   • Before the Depression, Art Deco was all about fancy materials and showy designs. It showed the wealth and happiness of the Roaring Twenties.
   • But when the Great Depression hit, artists changed their focus. They started creating simpler and more practical designs. The fancy style didn’t seem right when so many people were struggling.

2. Material Changes:

   • With people having less money, artists chose different materials. They moved away from rare woods and expensive stones.
   • Instead, they used more affordable materials like aluminum and chrome. This matched the industrial vibe of the time.
   • These shifts showed that artists wanted to create useful things that still looked good. They were adapting to the economic crisis while keeping their creativity alive.

3. Machine Age Influence:

   • The Great Depression happened alongside the rise of modernism and the Machine Age. Artists started to find beauty in machines and their parts.
   • During this time, the Art Deco style embraced sharp angles and geometric shapes. Many designs were inspired by cars and tall buildings like skyscrapers.
   • This showed a celebration of progress and new ideas, even during hard times.

4. Public Art for Everyone:

   • As the economy struggled, there was more focus on public art. Projects aimed to bring art to everyone’s lives.
   • Programs like the Works Progress Administration (WPA) funded murals and sculptures that helped uplift communities.
   • This shift made art accessible, not just for wealthy people. It became a way to lift the public spirit during tough times.

5. A Legacy of Strength:

   • The human spirit showed amazing resilience during the Great Depression, which influenced Art Deco. The style reflected strength and determination.
   • While it still had some glamour, it evolved to symbolize hope and progress. It captured a shared desire for recovery.

In conclusion, the Great Depression didn’t stop Art Deco. Instead, it changed the style to fit the time. By focusing on function, accessibility, and the beauty of resilience, Art Deco became a creative response to hard times.