What's Happening?
The Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) is hosting an exhibition titled 'Lewis Hine in Maryland,' which runs until December 18, 2026. This exhibition features the documentary photography of Lewis Hine,
who captured images of child workers in Maryland in July 1909, specifically at Bottomley berry farms in Anne Arundel County and the J. S. Farrand Packing Company in Baltimore. The display draws from UMBC’s Photography Collections and contextualizes Hine's Maryland work within his broader documentary project. Complementing Hine's photographs are two works from artist Lisa Oppenheim’s 'Spine' series. Oppenheim's pieces appropriate images by Lewis Hine from the Library of Congress, enlarging them to life size to depict the backs of adolescent textile workers whose bodies were affected by their labor. The exhibition includes a curatorial tour and opening reception, a panel discussion on food and labor in Maryland, and a closing reception.
Why It's Important?
This exhibition is important as it sheds light on a critical period of U.S. history concerning child labor and industrial practices in Maryland. Lewis Hine's work was instrumental in raising public awareness about the harsh realities faced by child workers, contributing significantly to social reform movements and the eventual establishment of child labor laws in the United States. By showcasing these historical photographs, the exhibition provides valuable insight into the social and economic conditions of the early 20th century. Lisa Oppenheim's contemporary artistic interpretations, utilizing images from the Library of Congress, offer a modern perspective on historical documentation, prompting viewers to reflect on the enduring impact of labor on individuals and society. The inclusion of a panel discussion on food and labor in Maryland further emphasizes the ongoing relevance of these themes to contemporary issues, fostering dialogue about labor practices and their societal implications.
What's Next?
The 'Lewis Hine in Maryland' exhibition will continue to be open to the public at the Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery until December 18, 2026. Throughout this period, visitors can engage with the historical photographs and contemporary art installations. The exhibition has already featured a curatorial tour and opening reception, as well as a panel discussion on food and labor in Maryland. A closing reception is also scheduled. Additionally, UMBC's Special Collections department will continue to highlight items connecting to Maryland's history through weekly posts on their blog and the Library’s myUMBC page as part of the MD250 blog series. These ongoing initiatives aim to further explore and disseminate knowledge about Maryland's rich history and its connections to broader national narratives.
Beyond the Headlines
The exhibition delves into the ethical dimensions of documentary photography and artistic appropriation. Lewis Hine's original intent was to expose social injustices, using his camera as a tool for advocacy and reform. Lisa Oppenheim's recontextualization of Hine's images from the Library of Congress raises questions about authorship, interpretation, and the power of historical archives in contemporary art. It highlights how historical documents can be re-examined and re-presented to provoke new understandings and discussions about past and present social issues. The focus on child labor also underscores the long-term societal shifts in labor laws and worker protections in the U.S., while simultaneously inviting reflection on global child labor issues that persist today. This artistic and historical dialogue encourages a deeper understanding of how visual culture shapes public perception and influences social change.
