"When men can freely communicate their thoughts and their sufferings, real or imaginary, their passions spend themselves in air, like gunpowder scattered upon the surface; but pent up by terrors, they work unseen, burst forth in a moment, and destroy everything in their course."--Thomas Erskine, on the Advantages of Free Speech, Rex v. Paine, 1792. From the series Great Ideas of Western Man.

Object Details

Luce Center Label

Paul Rand created this collage to illustrate a quote by Thomas Erskine for the Container Corporation of America. The inspiration for the design came from a painting in a book on Etruscan art, which depicted the profile of a face with what the artist described as "haunting eyes." Rand drew a face with wide, staring eyes and covered mouth to suggest an individual who is unable to speak. The image evokes a sense of despair or fear, emphasizing the importance of free speech.

Luce Object Quote

"The sources of pictorial ideas are without limit: a visit to the museum, a casual glance at a picture postcard or shop window, or something seen the day before in a book or newspaper are potential sources of information." Paul Rand, "A Designer's Art," 1985

"When men can freely communicate their thoughts and their sufferings, real or imaginary, their passions spend themselves in air, like gunpowder scattered upon the surface; but pent up by terrors, they work unseen, burst forth in a moment, and destroy everything in their course." Thomas Erskine, on the advantages of free speech, Rex v. Paine (1792)

Data Source

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Artist

Paul Rand, born New York City 1914-died Norwalk, CT 1996

Date

1954

Credit Line

Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Container Corporation of America

Medium

crayon, nail, and photomechanical reproduction on wood

Dimensions

9 3/4 x 7 x 1 1/4 in. (24.7 x 17.6 x 3.0 cm.)

Type

Sculpture