The artwork titled “Applicants waiting for jobs in front of FERA offices,” created by Ben Shahn in 1935, is part of the Social Realism movement and falls under the genre of photography.
The artwork vividly portrays a group of men standing and waiting in front of the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) offices, reflecting the economic desperation and social conditions of the time. The scene is set on a city street lined with shops and advertisements, and the men, dressed in varying hats and work clothes, exhibit expressions of contemplation and anticipation. The composition effectively captures the mood and atmosphere of the Great Depression era, drawing attention to the struggles faced by individuals seeking employment during this challenging period in American history. The detailed depiction of the setting and the candid postures of the subjects illustrate the artist’s commitment to conveying the stark realities of society.
