The Art of Freedom: How Artists See America, by Bob Raczka is a wonderful book of art that captures the past. Raczka has selected just some of the paintings, sculptures, and photography that define America. This book has more to offer than what is depicted on each page. This selected few opens a door to further inquiry and exploration of the works of art he has provided and to discover other works of art that he does not provide. Art is a wonderful tool to use in the classroom for any subject. Art and the discussion of art provides students with not only a visual, but often answers and perspectives that students may not otherwise get in textbooks. It would be amazing to see what images students would add to or delete in Raczka’s collection, or what images they would choose to define America as they see it today. Will their choices show their knowledge and awareness of the diversity that makes up America today? Will they be waiting to paint the next classic?
CW- Elementary Teacher