The article discusses various facets of anti-fascism that emerged between the World Wars, showcasing five books that explore this theme through different lenses, primarily within the art community.
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Antifascism in American Art: Cécile Whiting’s 1989 work delves into how American artists, including regionalists and leftists, responded to the rise of fascism during the 1930s, drawing on historical influences like Francisco de Goya and exploring the connection between abstract art and democratic ideals.
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Comrades in Art: Artists Against Fascism 1933-1943: Andy Friend’s 2025 study highlights the Artists International Association in London, which united diverse artists against fascism during the establishment of the Popular Front in Europe, featuring prominent figures like Picasso and Rivera.
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Acts of Resistance: The Power of Art to Create a Better World: Amber Massie-Blomfield’s 2023 book examines the intersection of art and political resistance, discussing case studies of art created in response to oppression, including the use of music in Auschwitz as a form of resistance.
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Surrealism and Anti-Fascism: Anthology: This 2025 anthology documents the significant role of Surrealism in anti-fascist struggles, presenting translated tracts that illustrate varied activism across Europe, from anti-colonial efforts to responses during the Spanish Civil War.
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Antifascism and the Avant-Garde: Radical Documentary in the 1960s: Julia Alekseyeva questions the aesthetic of anti-fascism through documentary film in postwar Japan and France. This 2025 book explores how avant-garde documentary challenged ethno-nationalism and engaged audiences in critical discourse.
Overall, these books provide a comprehensive insight into the diverse and nuanced forms of anti-fascist expression, particularly within the art world.
