Ben Shahn: On Nonconformity A Timely Retrospective at the Jewish Museum

30 May 2025

Ben Shahn, Scotts Run, West Virginia, 1937.

The Jewish Museum in New York City has unveiled Ben Shahn: On Nonconformity, the first major U.S. retrospective of the influential social realist artist in nearly 25 years. Running from May 23 to October 12, 2025, the exhibition offers a comprehensive exploration of Shahn's commitment to social justice, his evolving artistic style, and his complex relationship with identity.

Ben Shahn (1898–1969), born in Kaunas, Lithuania, immigrated to the United States in 1906. Settling in Brooklyn, he initially trained as a lithographer before pursuing formal art education at institutions like the National Academy of Design. Shahn's early experiences with lithography and graphic design are evident in his later works, which often combine text and image.

Throughout his career, Shahn was deeply engaged with the social issues of his time. His art addressed themes such as labor rights, racial injustice, and political oppression. Notable works include his series on the Sacco and Vanzetti trial, which critiqued the American justice system, and his murals for the Jersey Homesteads project, depicting the struggles and aspirations of immigrant communities.

Curated by Dr. Laura Katzman, in collaboration with Dr. Stephen Brown of the Jewish Museum, On Nonconformity features 175 works spanning from the 1930s to the 1960s. The exhibition includes paintings, mural studies, prints, photographs, commercial designs, and ephemera, showcasing Shahn's versatility across various media.

The exhibition's title is drawn from a 1957 lecture by Shahn, where he asserted that "nonconformity is a precondition for art." This ethos is reflected in his works that challenge societal norms and advocate for marginalized communities. From his early realist depictions to later allegorical and abstract pieces, Shahn's art consistently embodies a commitment to humanist values.

While Shahn was of Jewish heritage, he often resisted being labeled solely as a "Jewish artist," viewing such categorization as limiting. Nevertheless, his works frequently engage with Jewish themes and texts, including illustrations for the Haggadah and interpretations of the Book of Job. This nuanced relationship with his identity adds depth to his exploration of universal themes like suffering, resilience, and justice.

Ben Shahn: On Nonconformity not only revisits the artist's significant contributions to American art but also underscores the enduring relevance of his messages in today's sociopolitical climate. As Dr. Katzman notes, "Shahn’s understanding of art’s critical role in the perpetual struggle for a more just future resonates powerfully today."

Visitors can experience the exhibition at the Jewish Museum, located at 1109 Fifth Avenue at 92nd Street, New York, NY 10128. For more information on visiting hours and related programs, please refer to the museum's official website.