unofficial blog for course ART007

Lehigh University
Art Architecture and Design
113 Research Drive
Building C
Bethlehem, PA 18015

Labor Day, Yifeng

Activism Photography

This photo is taken by Devin Allen, framing a young African American kid flipping off at the police during protest This picture might be a bit “not safe for work”, but I do think this photo is powerful in somewhat of a similar way to Lewis Hine. More photos of this particular collection can be found on https://afropunk.com/2017/09/lense-baltimore-community-photo-activism-devin-allen/ . The fundamental idea of both of their works are centered around human rights: one for certain age group, and another for a race. The reason why picture like this is powerful and striking, in my opinion, is the unexpectedness and the emotion. Unexpected is the unusual conditions the kids are living under, is the unusually mature expression they have at such a young age, and also is the tough and suited up black police started to cry. Through the extreme posture and facial expression, we as viewers can feel the anger and sadness from these pictures, raising the awareness, and awakening our empathy with these people who are under oppression.

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