Arthur, Art Young Paintings


Art Young was an American cartoonist and writer born on January 14, 1866, in Orangeville, Illinois. He is best known for his political cartoons and illustrations that often reflected his socialist beliefs. Young grew up in the Midwest and, from an early age, showed a keen interest in drawing. He attended the Chicago Academy of Design but left after a brief period to begin his career as a cartoonist.

In the early days, Young struggled to find a consistent platform for his work. He moved to New York City, which was the center of the publishing industry at the time, and began working for various newspapers and periodicals. His work was characterized by a distinctive style that combined a sense of humor with biting social commentary. Young contributed to a number of publications, including the socialist magazine 'The Masses,' where he became a staff cartoonist and later, an editor.

Art Young's cartoons were particularly notable for their criticism of social injustices, capitalism, and political corruption. His work during World War I and in the years following often brought him into conflict with government authorities, especially during the Red Scare, when socialist ideas were under heavy scrutiny in the United States. Despite the controversies, Young remained a prolific artist, and his illustrations and cartoons were widely published. He also authored several books, including 'Art Young: His Life and Times,' which provided an insightful look into his career and the social issues of his era.

Throughout his career, Young remained committed to progressive and socialist causes, using his art to advocate for workers' rights, civil liberties, and social reforms. He was a co-founder of the leftist publication 'The Liberator' and contributed to 'Good Morning,' another magazine that he helped to establish. Art Young passed away on December 29, 1943, in New York. His legacy is preserved in the form of his bold, impactful artwork, which remains a testament to his dedication to social justice and political activism. His cartoons continue to be studied and admired for their artistic quality and historical relevance.