Peter in Prison 1929 - 1980

Editor: This delicate line drawing, "Peter in Prison" by Frances Richards, shows what appears to be an angel rescuing a prisoner. It feels both fragile and powerful. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a potent statement about the intersection of faith, liberation, and social justice. Consider the historical context. Richards created this work during a period of immense social upheaval, and her pacifist beliefs were strong. How might this image function as a subtle act of resistance? Editor: Resistance? I hadn’t considered that. It seemed more like a straightforward religious scene. Curator: Perhaps, but who does divine intervention serve? It elevates the imprisoned, those marginalized by oppressive systems. And doesn't the angel’s androgynous depiction challenge traditional gender roles in religious art? Editor: That’s a great point, I hadn’t noticed that before! Thanks for sharing your perspective. Curator: My pleasure, thinking about it this way gives it a whole new dimension.