Strange Worlds, immigration in the early 20th century

Todros Geller, Strange Worlds, 1928, oil on canvas, 71.8 x 66.4 cm (Art Institute of Chicago), a Seeing America video
Speakers: Sarah Alvarez, Director of School Programs, Department of Learning and Engagement, The Art Institute of Chicago and Steven Zucker

[@AnGeltheGRman]

Was waiting for a new video from you guys. Amazing work. Keep it up !!

[@kimnguyen1227]

I love that you're bringing perspective into current events with art. Immigration has always been at the forefront of this country and has ignite and challenge every generation.

[@SheIsTristine]

I loved the statement, "a fractured society." Isn't that true of what we are feeling and experiencing today? I see such sadness in his eyes; sadness and exhaustion from maybe trying to find his place in the world, feeling overwhelmed by it all. I think this painting says a lot about today's culture, too. So many of the same emotions on both sides, and both sides equally right.

[@radulTM]

Now, this is a good relevant art video, straight to the point! !!

[@willhouse]

Great stuff once again... I'm actually very familiar with this painting. The Art Institute is my hometown museum, and I now have years of personal interactions with "Strange Worlds." The canvas is just magnetic; it grabs me each time I walk through its gallery. I truly love how the additional context here only serves to strengthen my already-significant appreciation for this Geller work. Many sincere thanks to you, SmartHistory!

[@susanmcdonald6879]

brilliant, AND relevant! thank you!

[@almightyyt2101]

Sometimes I wonder if the medium is the message. Art is an attempt to bring context, express an idea in an orderly way , almost like a telepathic imprinting from the artists mind to ours, that picture being worth a thousand words while an author paints the picture with the words. Seems to be expressing the feeling of the day of a world under stress if coming apart from the lack of any order so that citizens familiar with thenation sense that without boundaries it will be lost in the disorder of fleeing refugees ,strange language, customs and a a frantic animal clawing at all the wealth of a Nation eager to grab it for themselves and establish theirown state and dominance

[@wisebee]

Excellent - one of your best!

[@edthoreum7625]

2:45 , as of 2018 -NAFTA/1994 & CAFTA /2004 ,economic policies have made profits for a few but has brought poverty to many( displacement & relocation?).

[@Sasha0927]

I wanted to make jokes about how strongly I relate to that man in the foreground, but it's not quite that bad today. 😅 In some ways, I also turn my back on modernity; in others, I advocate innovation and progress. The weariness is familiar regardless of which side of the fence I happen to be on. I feel for this guy, and for myself in seeing how I connect with him.