Fishing Boats, Stornoway, Scotland 1972

Ralston Crawford captured these fishing boats in Stornoway, Scotland, using gelatin silver print. This photographic process, popular in the 20th century, involves light-sensitive silver salts suspended in gelatin, coated on a base like paper. The stark monochrome emphasizes the materiality of the boats. You can almost feel the rough-hewn planks and thick ropes, the weight and texture of the vessels. Consider the labor involved in building and maintaining these boats, each element crafted for the demanding work of fishing. The ropes, essential for hauling nets, speak to the physical demands of the trade. Crawford invites us to reflect on the intersection of industry, labor, and the sea. This photograph serves as a reminder that even in fine art, the materials and the making process carry profound social and cultural significance. It challenges us to look beyond the image, and consider the human effort embedded within.