Class III as Art

By Robert G. Segel

One would not think to generally correlate the class three world and the art world within the same thought process. But to devotees of the class three world, art within that subject is not that big of a leap. Focusing on a specific inanimate object or subject in an artistic form is a logical extension of expression. Whether trying to capture a moment, an idea or a concept, the artist uses many different mediums to convey their thoughts.

Pewter sculpture of a shipboard mounted 20mm Oerlikan anti-aircraft machine gun in action by U.S. Navy seaman during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Title plaque reads: “U.S. NAVY PEARL HARBOR 1941”. Made in 1989 for the 50th anniversary of the attack by Chilton Pewter and signed by the artist: (David) “La Rocca.” Limited edition of 1,941 pieces.

Pewter sculpture depicting a Browning M1917A1 water cooled machine gun in action on Corregidor. Title plaque reads: “U.S. ARMY CORREGIDOR 1942”. Made in 1989 for the 50th anniversary of world War II by Chilton Pewter and signed by the artist: (David) “La Rocca.” Limited edition of 1,942 pieces.

Obviously, automatic weaponry is not a subject matter that would appeal to a wide general audience and as such there is not a lot of material that addresses this topic for the masses except that artwork created for commercial purposes such as posters. While readers of this magazine tend to see graceful lines, proper proportions, ingenious design, skilled craftsmanship and mechanical efficiency, others merely see abhorrent instruments of death. However, that is not to say that the subject is completely ignored. Statues, objects d’art, desk ornaments and paintings have been created over many years using automatic weapons as an integral part of the subject to commemorate service time, battles, personal remembrances and specific activities as well as that art used for commercial messages.

Pewter sculpture of two man 81mm mortar crew in action. Title plaque reads: “WE STRIKE BACK – U.S. ARMY – NORTH AFRICA 1943.” Made in 1990 for the 50th anniversary of World War II by Chilton Pewter and signed by the artist: (David) “La Rocca.” Limited edition of 1,943 pieces.

Amateur silk art painting rendered during the post World War I occupation by a soldier of Company A, 4th Machine Gun Battalion of the 2nd Division based in Neuwied, Germany. Note the image of the machine gun and the listing of battles the Division was involved in: Chateau Thierry, Soissons, St. Mihiel, Champagne, Argonne Meuse and Verdun.

The following photo selections are but a small sample of different art forms, used for different purposes, with a common theme that is of particular interest to those of us who are interested in the subjects they represent. Some have been created in exacting detail while others rely on a concept. Remember that art is subjective and what we consider to be art may be thought of as kitsch by others. Either way the artist, whether professional or amateur, has made a statement and it is up to each individual to interpret the meaning and purpose. But I think it is safe to say that the readers of this magazine can appreciate the artistic efforts of the subjects as represented here.