Meaning: Ben Shahn, an American artist known for his social realism and left-wing political views, made this statement in reference to his experience working with Roy Stryker's Farm Security Administration (FSA) during the Great Depression. The FSA was a New Deal agency that aimed to combat rural poverty by providing aid to farmers and documenting the impact of the Depression on rural America through photography and other visual media.

In this quote, Shahn reflects on his decision to bring a camera with him during his time with the FSA, explaining that he felt there wouldn't be enough time to draw the things he wanted to capture. This decision highlights the practical considerations he faced as an artist working in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. While he engaged in drawing and photography during his time with the FSA, he emphasizes that he was not officially part of Stryker's outfit, indicating a degree of independence in his artistic pursuits within the context of the FSA's work.

Shahn's decision to use both drawing and photography as means of capturing his experiences with the FSA speaks to his versatility as an artist and his commitment to documenting the social and economic hardships faced by rural communities during the Depression. His choice to bring a camera, in addition to his drawing materials, reflects his adaptability and willingness to embrace new technologies and methods to achieve his artistic goals.

In the broader context of Shahn's career, this quote sheds light on his approach to artistic expression and social commentary. Shahn was known for his powerful and emotionally charged artwork that addressed issues such as poverty, labor rights, and social injustice. His experiences with the FSA likely influenced his later work, serving as a source of inspiration and insight into the struggles of ordinary Americans during a tumultuous period in the nation's history.

Furthermore, Shahn's decision to work independently from Stryker's outfit while still engaging in similar subject matter underscores his individual artistic vision and the importance of personal expression within a larger collaborative effort. Despite not being officially part of Stryker's team, Shahn's contributions through his drawings and photography added to the collective documentation of the era and provided a unique perspective on the human experience amidst economic hardship.

Overall, Ben Shahn's quote offers a glimpse into his pragmatic approach to artistic documentation and his willingness to adapt to the challenges of capturing the essence of the Great Depression through visual media. It also highlights his commitment to using multiple artistic mediums to convey the struggles and resilience of the American people during a pivotal moment in history. Through his words, we gain insight into the complexities of artistic expression within the context of social and economic upheaval, as well as the enduring impact of Shahn's work in shaping our understanding of this transformative period in American history.