During the Depression years, the Works Project Administration's Fine Arts Project provided artists throughout the United States with modest stipends. With the establishment of its Graphic Arts Division in the fall of 1935, New York artists working in the print media were also given access to a workshop, skilled technicians, and new audiences. As a result, printmaking was re-energized. Many artists turned to traditional media - woodcuts, etching, and lithography - while others were inspired to pursue experimental approaches, including color printing and silkscreen as a fine art.

Prints from the Great Depression: The Richard and Linda Scott Collection showcases more than 40 prints created during the 1930s and 1940s. They reflect the times in showing both American scenes and socially-conscious subjects. The era was also distinguished by the diversity of artists who were exploring printmaking, including Thomas Hart Benton, John Steuart Curry, Mabel Dwight, Louis Lozowick, and Hughie Lee Smith.