The Women of world war II by: Samuel Torres

Shown in this photograph are the newest volunteers entering the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps, into Ft. Des Moines during the 1940s. The use of placement and the rule-of-thirds in the framing of this photograph show emphasis on the man dressed in a military uniform leading the group of women in civilian clothing. By doing this, it demonstrates the transition from civilian life to military life. Another supporting attribute is how these women are walking in formation and are all “in-step,” aka in cadence.

This is a portrait oil painting on canvas of Pvt. Rachele Caione, a woman serving in the Women’s Army Corps during Word War II. Painted in 1944, Francis Vandeveer Kughler, the artist, demonstrates contrast through the rich color used in the background. The contrast and placement of the Pvt. Caione illustrates the importance of her role within the service. Her face shows discipline through her military bearing. The principle design of focus executes a perfect depiction of the strong and courageous women she is.

This oil painting on asbestos cement sheet made by Russell Drysdale really shows its audience a complete different side of a woman’s perspective due to the after effects of World War II. This illustration clearly depicts the poverty and harsh environment this family is subjected to, with emphasis on the mother’s support towards her family. Drysdale uses variety to assist the viewers eye in capturing all elements of the painting. The outhouse in the far back to the bowl of bath water for the baby illustrates the day to day availabilities for the family. Color also plays a major role in telling the emotions this family is going through. Dark contrasting colors and rolling skies represent the position this woman plays as the mother dealing with the aftermath of the economic destruction due to WWII.

This black and white print resembles the famously known "Rosie the Riveter" posters that demonstrated women’s strength and capabilities during World War II. The composition of this print is great as it follows the rule-of-thirds and draws the focus point to the African American woman sitting atop what looks to be an aircraft wing. The contrast of the black and white print appears to be supported by a light source coming from the left hand side of the camera, providing great highlights on the woman pictured. In a time where many African Americans faced much scrutiny and racism, the picture beautifully illustrates the role women played in the support of the War. A riveter and machinist is a crucial part to the success of military equipment and this woman is truly making a difference, one rivet at a time.

In this black and white print, we see a group of nurses arriving to the Middle East to assist in medical services for World War II troops. The focus point has the woman framed in the middle as they seem to be waiting for a train. This photograph has a candid appearance, almost as if the photographer voiced themselves loudly enough to have the women closest to turn around and smile for the camera. It’s important that we pay attention to the body language of these few nurses facing the camera. Although the description clarifies that these nurses are just arriving, the fact that they are smiling for a photograph gives off the notion that they have yet to see the overwhelming destruction and violence of the war. These women made large sacrifices to help the wounded. It would be interesting to see the difference in appearance if, in fact, these nurses were leaving the war.

Within this oil on canvas painting, we see a family of women, possibly several generations of family members left worried and emotional, capturing the environment around them. We can see the soldier entering the village in the upper left. The women look unsure of the situation while the little girl seems frightened and is holding tight to the older woman. The lines used within these piece are mostly circular yet still have the ability to come together to covey the emotions depicted. The use of color and lines illustrate the hard life of these women as they look aged and worn. Women have all had many roles within the war and this is one of the harder ones.

This Canadian propaganda oil on canvas board shows us that this type of propaganda/marketing strategy happened in all parts of the globe. Here we see a woman showing her support as she hands the combat soldier a rifle as if it wouldn’t be possible for him to fight without her help. Shape and color are the formal elements that stand out the most. The dynamic shape of the flag and uniforms illustrates motion within the piece which is important in supporting the message being delivered. “Let’s finish the job” means that they are already in forward motion and need last bit of support to win. The colors contrast the soldier from the background by using the red flag. This appears to clarify the difference between the soldiers in the back that need support versus the soldier accepting the rifle who is standing tall and strong as he receives the support they need.