"Steel Mills also links a historical moment to the values and ideals embodied in the American identity. The carefully composed landscape speaks to the natural beauty of the American landscape as well as the ideal that cutting-edge industrialism is tantamount to progress. With the verdant grass and clear blue sky, this photograph boasts a natural beauty as breathtaking as the towering steel mills on the horizon. The juxtaposition of man versus nature, as evident in the composition, demonstrates the paradox that is America: a people, both as deeply connected to the land as they are committed to the progress of industry. In the forefront of the picture, Delano unapologetically presents the makeshift housing: plain and simply the aftermath of a damaged economy. Within this landscape, Delano alludes to the historical connection to the land, and the current economic crisis, while still acknowledging the hopeful economic possibilities."

Written by Kayla Erickson (SC '09) 2008-2009 Wilson Intern

"View of the top of the steel works from a distance, huts, houses and small field in the foreground.Printed 1986 Light Gallery authentication stamp on verso. Limited edition set of 250 dye transfer prints from original Farm Security Administration transparencies held by the Library of Congress, Washington, D.C. Artist's name, title, transparency date, printing date and gallery number in pencil on verso."

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