Meaning: This quote by artist Ben Shahn reflects his passion for photography and his admiration for the work of Roy Stryker, a renowned photographer and director of the Farm Security Administration's (FSA) documentary photography project during the Great Depression. Shahn's words convey his desire to work with Stryker and his team, acknowledging the impact and influence of documentary photography on his own artistic pursuits.

Ben Shahn was a prominent American artist known for his work in painting, photography, and graphic design. His artistic style often combined elements of social realism and modernism, and he was deeply committed to using art as a means of social commentary and political activism. Shahn's interest in photography aligned with his broader artistic vision, as he sought to capture and convey the human experience and social realities through visual imagery.

When Shahn mentions his preference to work with Stryker over his own department, he is alluding to the FSA's documentary photography project, which produced iconic images that documented the impact of the Great Depression on American society. Stryker's team of photographers, including Dorothea Lange, Walker Evans, and Arthur Rothstein, created powerful and evocative images that brought attention to the plight of the rural poor, migrant workers, and the challenges faced by Americans during a time of economic hardship.

Shahn's reference to his department being "more artistic" suggests that he may have been involved in a different aspect of the arts, possibly within a more traditional or studio-based artistic practice. However, his fascination with photography, particularly the documentary work being done by Stryker and the FSA photographers, highlights the profound impact that documentary photography had on him during this period.

The quote also reveals Shahn's recognition of the social and historical significance of documentary photography. By expressing his preference to work with Stryker, Shahn acknowledges the power of photography as a tool for capturing and communicating the realities of the world around us. He saw the potential of photography to convey important social and political messages, and this likely resonated with his own artistic and activist inclinations.

In the context of the Great Depression, documentary photography played a crucial role in raising awareness and shaping public perception of the economic crisis. The images produced by Stryker and his team not only documented the hardships faced by many Americans but also served as a catalyst for social and political action. These photographs brought attention to the need for government intervention and support for those suffering from the effects of the Depression.

Shahn's admiration for Stryker and the FSA photographers underscores the interconnectedness of artistic expression and social awareness. His words reflect a deep appreciation for the role of photography in capturing the human experience and shedding light on important social issues. This sentiment aligns with Shahn's own artistic endeavors, as he often sought to use art as a means of advocating for social justice and highlighting the struggles of the marginalized and disenfranchised.

In conclusion, Ben Shahn's quote captures his profound interest in photography and his admiration for the documentary work of Roy Stryker and the FSA photographers. It underscores the significance of documentary photography as a powerful medium for social commentary and historical documentation, and it sheds light on the enduring impact of visual imagery in shaping our understanding of the world. Shahn's words serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of documentary photography and its capacity to inspire, inform, and provoke meaningful dialogue about the human experience.