A coalition of artists, preservationists, and activists is raising concerns about the potential demolition of a significant federal office building near the National Mall by the Trump administration. The building in question, known as the Wilbur J. Cohen Federal Building, houses several New Deal-era murals that highlight the importance of Social Security in the United States.
Alex Lawson, the executive director of Social Security Works, and local muralist Absurdly Well have joined forces to create a petition to save the artworks inside the Wilbur Cohen building. Described as the “Sistine Chapel of New Deal art” in the petition, these murals are considered to be invaluable representations of American history and culture.
In an interview with Hyperallergic, Lawson condemned Trump’s proposed actions as “authoritarianism 101,” emphasizing the importance of preserving art, culture, and history in the face of authoritarian regimes. The potential destruction of the Wilbur Cohen building and its artworks signifies a dangerous trend towards erasing important symbols of America’s national heritage.
The Wilbur Cohen building, a historically designated landmark in Washington, DC, is home to murals by renowned artists such as Ben Shahn, Philip Guston, Seymour Fogel, and Ethel and Jenne Magafan. One of the most notable works is Shahn’s “The Meaning of Social Security,” which depicts the impact of the federal financial safety net during the Great Depression.
Preservationist Judy Chesser highlighted the significance of these artworks in representing the American worker and the government’s commitment to social welfare. The potential sale of the Wilbur Cohen building to private developers has raised concerns about the preservation of these culturally and historically significant murals.
President Trump’s track record of disregarding historic artworks, such as the destruction of limestone friezes during the construction of Trump Tower, has added to the anxiety surrounding the fate of the Wilbur Cohen building. The General Services Administration’s decision to list the property for accelerated disposition indicates a clear intention to sell it off to private interests.
Activists, artists, and lawmakers are mobilizing to protect the Wilbur Cohen building and its artworks from demolition. Maine Democratic Rep. Chellie Pingree has pledged to fight against the administration’s plans, emphasizing the importance of preserving these cultural assets for future generations.
Artist Absurdly Well expressed outrage at the administration’s attempts to erase the country’s history and dismantle vital social programs. He called on artists to channel their anger into creating art that resists attempts to erase important narratives from public memory.
The battle to save the Wilbur Cohen building and its murals is ongoing, with activists and advocates working tirelessly to ensure that these invaluable pieces of American history are not lost to demolition. The fight to preserve these artworks serves as a reminder of the power of art to resist authoritarianism and preserve the stories of the past for future generations.
