Meaning: This quote by the American artist Benjamin Shahn reflects on the changing nature of work and community. Shahn was known for his social realist artwork, which often depicted the struggles and experiences of working-class people. In this quote, he captures the shift from a more communal and personal form of labor to a more isolated and industrialized one.

In the past, the image of twelve people crowded around a sewing table evokes a sense of intimacy and collaboration. It suggests a small, close-knit group working together to create something tangible. This image harkens back to a time when many tasks, such as sewing, were done in small workshops or homes, with individuals working closely alongside one another.

The contrast with the present, where Shahn notes that it's now ten people instead of twelve, hints at a loss of community and personal connection in the modern workplace. The reduction in the number of people gathered around the table symbolizes the shift towards a more impersonal and mechanized mode of production. It reflects the trend of industrialization and the diminishing importance of individual craftsmanship and collaboration.

Shahn's quote also speaks to the broader societal changes brought about by industrialization and technological advancements. With the rise of mass production and the mechanization of labor, many traditional crafts and trades have been transformed. Small-scale, artisanal production has given way to larger, more impersonal factories and assembly lines. The shift from twelve to ten people around the sewing table represents a microcosm of this larger societal change.

Furthermore, Shahn's quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the impact of these changes on human relationships and community. The image of people gathered around a table suggests a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. The reduction in numbers hints at the fragmentation and alienation that can result from modern industrial practices. The loss of those two individuals can represent the loss of personal connections and the sense of community that comes with traditional forms of work.

In the context of Shahn's own artistic practice, this quote also reflects his concern with the human experience and the effects of societal transformation. Shahn was deeply committed to portraying the struggles and dignity of ordinary people, and his work often highlighted the impact of industrialization and modernization on their lives. This quote can be seen as an extension of his artistic exploration of these themes, capturing the emotional and social consequences of changing work environments.

Overall, Benjamin Shahn's quote serves as a poignant reflection on the evolution of work and community. It encapsulates the shift from small-scale, communal labor to larger, more impersonal modes of production, and raises important questions about the human impact of these changes. Through this quote, Shahn invites us to consider the profound social and emotional implications of industrialization and modernization on the fabric of our communities.