Art on Display: A Chronicle of Political and Topical Billboards Across the US

As the United States gears up for its next presidential election, a new book documenting artistic billboards throughout America is particularly pertinent. These billboards, some featuring politically charged or socially relevant messages, have become prominent symbols over recent years.

The Genesis of For Freedoms

The organization behind these creative displays is For Freedoms, established in 2016 by a talented group of artists, including Hank Willis Thomas and Eric Gottesman. This collective has been instrumental in showcasing art that stretches across America's highways and byways, inviting reflection and dialogue.

A Showcase of Diverse Voices

In a testament to the breadth and depth of this initiative, the recent publication features 550 billboard creations by various renowned artists, such as the Guerrilla Girls, Lorraine O’Grady, Ai Weiwei, and Emily Hanako Momohara. The book also enriches readers with essays penned by Whitney Museum of American Art curator Rujeko Hockley and activist Nadya Tolokonnikova of Pussy Riot fame.

Art in Times of Change

For Freedoms representatives Eric Gottesman, Wyatt Gallery, and Taylor Brock describe the publication as a documentation of work by hundreds of artists. These artworks, prominently displayed in both urban and rural settings over the last eight years, come during periods marked by significant social and political unrest. The creators, while diverse in thought, share a common conviction: creativity can transform seemingly unchangeable systems.

Highlighted Works

Several notable billboard works featured in the book include:

- Emily Hanako Momohara's "Family Incarceration: Never Again is Now" (2018)

Displayed in Nampa, Idaho as part of the 50 State Initiative, this piece was designed in collaboration with 21c Museum Hotels.

- Hank Willis Thomas's "Who Taught You To Love?" (2020)

This work adorned Des Moines, Iowa, during the Awakening campaign, in collaboration with McCourt Global.

- Lorraine O'Grady's "Come Out, Come Out, Wherever You Are" (2018)

Featured in Springfield, Massachusetts, as part of the 50 State Initiative.

- Guerrilla Girls's "Democracy? Only When ALL Votes Are Counted!" (2020)

A product of the 2020 Awakening campaign, this billboard was unveiled in West Virginia in collaboration with McCourt Global.

- Ai Weiwei's "Question Mark" (2020)

Displayed in Knoxville, Tennessee, it formed part of the 2020 Awakening initiative.

- Spider Martin and For Freedoms's "Make America Great Again" (2016)

Presented in Pearl, Mississippi as part of the superPAC campaign.

A Timely Collection

This book, titled For Freedoms: Where Do We Go From Here?, authored by Hank Willis Thomas, Eric Gottesman, and others, is published by Monacelli Press/For Freedoms, spanning 360 pages and priced at £44.95. The publication serves as both a visual delight and a thoughtful exploration of artistic activism during a dynamic era in US history.

This collection captures the spirit of American creativity, resilience, and the power of art to inspire change. Whether shown in bustling cities or quiet towns, these billboards have carried messages that resonate deeply across the nation.