“The Map Maker,” a 1942 political cartoon by Arthur Szyk, features Hitler and other fascist figures. The article by Cathryn J. Prince highlights a current exhibition, “Art of Freedom: The Life and Work of Arthur Szyk,” at the Museum of Jewish Heritage, showcasing over 100 of Szyk’s pieces as the nation anticipates its 250th anniversary.
Szyk’s 1942 painting “Washington Crossing the Delaware” reinterprets the iconic scene, portraying diverse American soldiers to reflect inclusivity and the fight for freedom. Born in Poland in 1894, Szyk fled to the U.S. in 1940 after the Nazi invasion of Poland. He gained prominence with his Szyk Haggadah and created many political works, including anti-fascist themes during World War II.
The exhibition runs through July 26, 2026, featuring never-before-seen pieces, original works, and commercial cartoons. Szyk’s suite illustrating Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms, on display for the first time in 80 years, represents the fight against fascism and the moral obligation to protect freedoms.
Szyk’s legacy as a fierce defender of civil rights and a committed Jewish artist endures. He openly challenged racism and supported Jewish refugees, often drawing scrutiny from the House Un-American Activities Committee. His work remains a powerful testament to the ongoing struggle against totalitarianism and undemocratic forces.
