Brooklyn-based artist Morgan Schweitzer recently created a series of illustrations titled simply, ‘Pakistan’ for New York Times Magazine.
The artwork is a sharp portrayal of the political intrigues, uncertainty and violence that plague the south Asian country of 177 million people. Pakistan is at the heart of the so-called war on terror, haunted by its troubled relationship with its powerful, nuclear-armed neighbor, India and internally divided along political, religious and economic cleavages.
In these illustrations, Schweitzer depicts the wrath of helicopter gunships, the single-minded determination of Seal Team Six, the lethargy of politicians, as well as the suspicions of everyday people like cab drivers.
Looking at this artwork, one can’t help feel grateful for the security and prosperity that people in developed countries so often take for granted.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Political Illustrations
- Illustrators can create sharp, visceral works that accurately depict the political climate in particular countries or regions.
- Visual Storytelling
- Images can provide a powerful and emotional way to tell the story of complex political situations.
- Real-time Depiction
- Artists and illustrators can create real-time depictions of current events that help people understand the impact of political decisions.
Industries Being Reshaped
- News Media
- News outlets can use political illustrations to supplement their coverage of complex political situations.
- Art and Design
- Illustrators and designers can use their skills to create powerful depictions that shed light on political situations in otherwise inaccessible ways.
- Education
- Teachers and educators can use political illustrations to help students better understand complex political concepts and situations.
