Untitled, Shenango Ingot Molds (Working People series) 1978 - 1981

This photograph, part of Milton Rogovin’s “Working People series”, captures two men working at the Shenango Ingot Molds; it’s raw and immediate, like a snapshot of real life. The grainy texture and stark contrast between light and shadow create a palpable sense of grit. The details, like the smudges on their clothes and the way their bodies strain, speak volumes about their labor. Notice how the light focuses on the immediate work area, emphasizing the intensity and danger of their task. It's a testament to the dignity of labor, reminiscent of Dorothea Lange's portraits of resilience during the Depression era. Looking at this, I’m reminded that art isn’t always about beauty; sometimes, it’s about bearing witness to the world. It is about the conversations with others that inspire us to look closer.