BLOG # 16: Expressing an Artistic Attitude (27a)

Migrant Workers

Dorothea Lange

1935

Mississippi Delta Children

Dorothea Lange

A couple wearing raccoon coats with a Cadillac, taken on West 127th Street

James Van Der Zee

1932

Gelatin silver print, printed later

Lange's Migrant Workers (top photo) and James Van Der Zee's Cadillac couple (bottom photo) depict two very different worlds. I found it interesting that they both of these photographs consist of a car that sprawl past the edges of the composition. Van der Zee's photograph is sharp, glitzy, and evokes the humans' admiration for luxury. The classy couple are enjoying their roomy ride of comfort while modeling their fancy clothing. I imaging them dressed for cocktails and a elegant night on the town.

In a different world, Lange's Migrant Workers have a different future. All the luggage that adorns the car reassures the viewer that travel is taking place. This photograph lacks the shine and reflective qualities that are shown in Van der Zee's photo. It is a bit grainier and not quite as clear. It makes me think of the future that these migrant workers might have had in store. I am sure uncertainty was an all too familiar part of their world.

James Nachtwey's website, Witness, also exhibits some intense photos depicting hardships and horrors of the world we live in.

http://www.jamesnachtwey.com/