Untitled (women with Altrusa Club banner) 1974

Editor: This photograph by Ken Whitmire Associates pictures a group of women with an Altrusa Club banner. It feels like a snapshot of a specific moment in time. What symbols or messages do you see embedded in this image? Curator: The Altrusa banner itself is a potent symbol. Note the globe, anchoring the organization to international service and efficiency. How do you interpret the inclusion of the word "patriotism" within the circle? Editor: Perhaps it reflects a particular era’s understanding of global citizenship? Curator: Precisely. It intertwines local loyalty with international outreach, reflecting the complex, and sometimes contradictory, ideals of service organizations. It prompts us to consider the evolving meanings of such terms over time, doesn't it? Editor: Yes, I see that now. It’s more than just a group photo; it’s a snapshot of cultural values. Curator: Exactly. These visual cues offer a glimpse into the past, inviting us to decipher the cultural narratives they contain.