During
both world wars, art was used as a form of propaganda to influence
the vast majority of German attitudes and patriotism. Art has been
used many times for propaganda. It catches the eye and invokes interest,
but most of all; it gives people a visual picture of what the message
is. In the case of Nazi propaganda, art was used to idolize Hitler
and his ways. Films and striking posters were special in making Hitler
appear as a god or an all powerful being, rather than just a mere
man. Some were done to make the Nazi party a wonderful group. It made
people both fear and respect Hitler, leading them to go along with
what he said. Most posters used portrayed happy Arian people, or a
soldier with a smile on his face.
The art used for Nazi propaganda ranged from posters
on the street, postage stamps, films, and postcards. They were omnipotent
and they everywhere. In Germany, films were shown in many urban cities.
Right before a film Nazi propaganda was shown. There was generally
a short film showing the righteous soldiers and their leader. It showed
Hitler doing a powerful and passionate speech; it showed ordinary
people doing things for the Nazi party. It invoked patriotism and
that was most effective in propaganda.Leni Riefenstahl is best known
for her films used for Nazi propaganda. She created an image of righteousness
for the Nazi party that had to have convinced German citizens to join
in. Not only did Riefenstahls films convince many people to
join the Nazi party, but many posters and stamps did the same thing.
Postage stamps were everywhere too. Many stamps of the time had portraits
of Hitler and encouraging for the Nazi movement. Since writing letters
was the most common way of communicating,post was very effective,
it was sent to people all over and therefore people all over got to
see the propaganda used, even in other countries. The posters on the
street attracted attention; they often had beautiful drawings and
words of patriotism, while others conveyed hate towards the Jews.
Art has been used for propaganda for centuries. Art on posters and
films were severely effective because it went to the public, it was
everywhere so that the general population, not just the intellects
that attended speeches and rallies. Art is something people can see,
and not just hear. Art catches the eye and can turn something complicated
into something simple, with few words and something understandable,
something a child would understand. Art is something beautiful that
explains something complicated. Art as propaganda reaches everyone
everywhere.