Oftentimes, the Soviet Union was portrayed as being a "great family" with Stalin as the "great father" This idyllic image shows Russian children looking adoringly at Stalin.
Another aspect of Stalin's cult was the portrayal of Stalin as Lenin's heir, his reign a continuation of Lenin's. Images often depict Lenin alongside Stalin, his profile present with Stalin's.
Benevolent Dictator?? Here, Stalin is seen bestowing gifts of flowers on his people. In this way, he creates an image for himself as a great provider and protector of his people.
"And We Will Defeat The Drought!" This picture shows Stalin modifying a map of Russian Terrain to suit his desires. The message behind this image is not a subtle one. Stalin is shown as being able to literally manipulate the surface of the earth in order to change the climate.
This picture shows Stalin as a great military commander. He is shown overseeing the entire Russian fleet, and the image is obviously meant to convey military might and control, with the suggestion that Stalin is directly responsible for any military success enjoyed by the USSR.
Stalin presents the communist baby as being the great hope of the Soviet Union. It's related to the cult of personality, as it depicts Stalin as the nurturer of future generations. It's also a little creepy.
Again, Soviets weren't exactly subtle with their propaganda messages. This one shows Stalin as the captain of a ship, presumably the Soviet Union. It sends the message that he's in utter control, charting a course for progress and success.
Stalin also seemed very concerned with his image as the sole leader. The posters below feature Stalin appearing cool, calm, collected, and totally in control. These images seem to say "Check out our fearless leader!" Certainly, they suggest that Stalin was the pinnacle of Russian politics, and even Russian society.
It's all about the mustache.
Napoleon Bonaparte hand-in-jacket signature pose.
Stalin looking pensive.
2.) Stalin hijacked the arts, such as music and literature, to promote the Soviet agenda, and to mobilize the entire society towards garnering as much support for the socialist cause as possible.
All practitioners were forced to join state unions, which demanded they adhere to party standards. In 1934, a law was ratified that works of art had to reflect the socialist priorities of the party. Also, the artists were required to remain within traditional bounds of each craft, limiting creative innovation. This was known as "socialist realism", and adherence was required in all forms of expression.
The literary scene, in particular suffered. Prior to censorship implemented by Stalin, Russian literature had experienced a Renaissance of sorts. However, during Stalin's reign, literature was confined to a number of approved authors and subject matter. Apolitical or "trivial" topics were banned and gave way to the works that had been approved by the party. These were often steeped in morality and political dogma.
Music, too, was subject to this unwavering censorship. As part of his Russification policy, Stalin banned music that had origins in other cultures. Additionally, the burgeoning avant garde movement was squelched in favor of a more traditional musical style. Many composers were forced to modify their works, and were discredited by the party.
http://countrystudies.us/russia/10.htm
http://www.nybooks.com/articles/archives/2000/oct/19/the-arts-in-russia-under-stalin/
http://www.ce-review.org/99/1/music1_horton.html
http://www.historyguide.org/europe/cult.html
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