The Post-Civil War’s New Deal – funding the Arts

[Amy L.]

A vague question: Is there proof that Lincoln intended to support funding of the Arts in his second administrative term?

I read this somewhere, but did not take notes, don’t remember the source, and since then I’ve questioned the idea again and again.
At first asking, “Was the man himself so interested in the Arts?”
Since reading still more about Lincoln, the idea is not surprising. And I assume such a plan’s intent would be economic stimulus during Reconstruction. …

Any insight?

[Gene C]

He enjoyed the theater and poetry, frequently had bands play on the White House Lawn, but I am not aware of any Public (Government) support of the "Arts" by Lincoln.

I'm sure he would appreciate the sarcasm regarding the media's attention to the (so-called) art of a $120,000 banana duck taped to a wall.
https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign...asel-miami

[Craig Hipkins]

That banana taped to the wall art piece would definitely confuse anybody from the 19th century. At first they would believe it to be a joke. Then when they realized it wasn’t a joke it would totally baffle their sensibilities. Lincoln would probably be scratching his beard!