Fabricage van metalen sloepen 1953

This small silver gelatin print, titled "Fabricage van metalen sloepen", meaning "Manufacture of metal sloops", captures a moment frozen in time, by an anonymous artist, showcasing the labor-intensive process of metal boat construction. The monochromatic palette emphasizes texture and form, from the coarse, shadowy grain of the print itself, to the smooth, reflective surfaces of the metal sloops. Look how the light catches the edges of the metal, revealing the curves and angles of the boat's design. The composition is divided into two images, each offering a different perspective on the boat-building process. The upper image shows the interior of a boat where a worker is bent over in labour, while the lower image shows the exterior with a group of people. The grainy texture reminds me of early photography experiments, when the technology was still developing. It’s like looking through a portal into the past, a reminder of the hard work and craftsmanship that goes into creating something both functional and beautiful. This piece resonates with the work of Lewis Hine, who similarly documented industrial labor with a compassionate eye, capturing the dignity and humanity of working people. It's a testament to the power of art to preserve history and evoke empathy.