America Creates Hope

America Creates Hope explores the remarkable role creativity played in helping Americans navigate one of the nation’s most difficult eras.

During the Great Depression, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) put thousands of artists, designers, writers, photographers, musicians, and craftspeople back to work. Their efforts brought art into everyday American life through murals, sculptures, photography, performances, guidebooks, and thousands of boldly designed posters promoting literacy, public health, education, travel, recreation, and the arts.

Featuring examples of these iconic posters, America Creates Hope looks beyond their striking colors and timeless typography to the larger story they tell—one of creativity as meaningful work and art as a public service. Nearly ninety years later, their messages remain remarkably relevant, reminding us of the power of art to educate, encourage, connect communities, and inspire hope during uncertain times.

Presented by Arts & Education at the Hoyt and on view at the UPMC Jameson Atrium Gallery.