Ladder 1981

Here we see "Ladder", a work by Harmony Hammond, who was born in 1944. Hammond emerged as an artist during the feminist art movement of the 1970s, which sought to challenge patriarchal structures in the art world and broader society. Hammond's work often explores themes of gender, sexuality, and identity, reflecting her own experiences as a lesbian artist. It is interesting to note that "Ladder" can be seen as both an object of support and a symbol of upward mobility. It invites viewers to consider the challenges and possibilities of ascending towards a more inclusive and equitable society. Hammond is quoted as saying, “I see my work as an ongoing negotiation with feminism and painting.” We might want to consider how "Ladder" is a work that engages with the formal language of painting but infuses it with personal and political meaning. The piece prompts us to think about the obstacles and opportunities encountered in the pursuit of equality.