by David C. Barnett
The Industrial Midwest is a key battleground in this year’s presidential campaign, as both major parties pledge to bring jobs back to a once prosperous region, now known as the Rust Belt. Some area residents think that’s an embarrassing term, evoking decay and failure. Others have embraced it as a description of grit and authenticity.
Cleveland’s deep relationship with its industrial heritage can be seen in the work of artists, both local and national. As part of a reporting series with The Plain Dealer, called " Heart of Steel", ideastream Senior Arts Reporter David C. Barnett reports that it’s a complicated connection.
(This piece contains historic images from the LTV Archives, Western Reserve Historical Society)
Find more reporting in our Heart of Steel series here
Industrial Arts from David C Barnett on Vimeo.
