ERA March, Washington, DC (women in hard hats) 1979

Curator: Rosalind Solomon's black and white photograph, "ERA March, Washington, DC (women in hard hats)," captures a moment of determined protest. Editor: It's striking! The composition is so direct, almost confrontational. The contrast emphasizes the weightiness and texture of those hard hats. Curator: The work's strength lies in its documentary power. Solomon situates us within the struggle for the Equal Rights Amendment, highlighting the intersectional efforts of women laborers. Note the signs. Editor: I see the formal rigor too, though. The square format creates a sense of enclosure, intensifying the focused energy of the demonstration. The signs are simple. Curator: Exactly. The image encapsulates the spirit of the movement. It's a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality, as well as the efforts of women in the U.I.W. of N.A. Editor: I appreciate how the artist utilizes visual organization to make a powerful statement about the presence of the subjects involved. It moves beyond its historical context.