Art as Activism: The Compelling Paintings of Ben Shahn

This is the documentary that was completed by 2009 National History Day Senior Documentary Finalist, Lauren White. The documentary covers the artistic life, career and motivations of the lauded artist Ben Shahn, who is one of the originators of the "Social Realism" movement of the 20th Century. His paintings cover social issues ranging from the trial of Sacco and Vanzetti to the tribulations of the crew members of the "Lucky Dragon" and war time propaganda.