“Proletarian Mother” is an oil on burlap painting created by David Alfaro Siqueiros in 1929. This allegorical piece, measuring 249 x 180 cm, is an exemplar of the Expressionism movement. The painting is housed in the prestigious Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork depicts a solemn, contemplative figure of a mother, embodying the struggles and toils characteristic of proletarian life. She is portrayed with a resolute expression, cradling two children, both rendered in an expressive, almost sculptural, manner. The figures are infused with earthy tones, emphasizing their connection to the working class. The composition evokes a poignant sentiment of resilience and nurturing amidst hardship, reflecting the socio-political concerns of the era.
