Propaganda to Decoration
2019 Projects
The 2019 University City Public Art Series was developed by students in lecturer Sage Dawson’s Art Practices: Propaganda to Decoration course. The course used the print multiple as a starting point to explore a continuum that runs from propaganda to decoration. Reproduction, distribution, urban communication, social space, intervention, and site specificity were explored throughout the course. In the later portion of the course, students worked to implement their own projects as part of the series.
Through site visits, historical research, and conversations with neighbors, students got to know the area around Mooney Park, a private park located in University City. Students looked at elements like the social history, nature, and building details to draw inspiration for their flags and banners. The banners were temporarily installed throughout the neighborhood, either in the park or in resident’s front yards.
In addition to creating the banners, the class organized an interactive parade from Mooney Park up and around the traffic circle near University City High School. Accompanied by the Washington University Marching Band, the students and neighborhood residents carried their banners through the rain, and were cheered on by residents from porches. The community gathered to view the banners and enjoy snacks in Mooney Park following the parade and before the banners were installed. The parade was held on Saturday, April 27, 2019.
