Culture is a powerful concept. It is a key means of understanding ourselves and each other. Unpacking the ways in which culture is constructed reveals how values, identities, and social practices are shaped—and whose perspectives are amplified or marginalized in the process.
Everything that comprises the visual field creates information about a place, its history, its people, and your role in it all.
The visual culture of a place can signal a sense of belonging for some while signaling a sense of exclusion for others. It can tell a holistic story or only part of it. Often, there is someone or something missing from the narrative.
While the concept of visual culture prioritizes what can be seen, there are more ways than just sight to get a sense for the identity of a place. Consider, sound, smell, and touch as other important ways of getting to know your surroundings.
Build your own definition of “visual culture” by selecting all elements you believe apply.
Culture is a difficult concept to define. Ideas about culture change over time, are context-dependent, and are largely a matter of perspective.
Attempts to define culture for any person or group of people should be treated carefully. The ability to create meaning about oneself and others is powerful. Cultural expression is always dynamic, fluid, and complex.
Consider: Is there such a thing as cultural authenticity? Where is the line between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation? What is the difference between celebrating a culture and reinforcing a stereotype? Who has the power to decide?
Select all the ways you experience culture.
Gallup’s New Deal art collection consists of over 120 objects created, purchased, or donated from 1933 to 1942 through New Deal federal art programs administered by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to support artists during the Great Depression.
The Gallup New Deal Art Virtual Museum features three types of exhibits, combining traditional and non-traditional approaches to illuminate academic, creative, and individual understandings.
Gallup’s New Deal art collection includes works by a demographically, professionally, and stylistically diverse group of named and unnamed artists.
Image Use Notice: Images of Gallup’s New Deal artworks are available to be used for educational purposes only. Non-collection images are subject to specific restrictions and identified by a © icon. Hover over the icon for copyright info. Read more
