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Works Progress Administration Art

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Iowa

Vintage WPA poster highlights Des Moines’ historic fight against smoke pollution in 1940s

This vintage WPA poster, "Smoke over Des Moines - WHY," highlights the environmental challenges Des Moines faced in the 1930s. The poster's bold, block letters and dark, swirling smog backdrop effectively capture the issue at hand. Created as part of the WPA's art program, the poster aimed to educate and engage citizens on pressing community matters.