Artist and activist LaToya Ruby Frazier’s retrospective exhibition, “Monuments of Solidarity,” is monumental in every sense. Covering over two decades of her work, it offers Frazier a unique opportunity to showcase not only her photography but also her installations, providing a comprehensive view of her artistic journey and activism.
The exhibition features a series of installation pieces that Frazier refers to as “workers’ monuments.” This format allows her to present her photographs within a broader context, highlighting the extensive networks of relationships and activism behind each image. Remarkably, Frazier had the autonomy to curate the exhibition on her own terms, thanks to the support of New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). This collaboration with MoMA curator Roxana Marcoci marks a significant milestone for Frazier, who sees it as a rare opportunity for an artist of her age.
Frazier’s work delves deep into the struggles and resilience of marginalized communities, particularly those in her hometown of Braddock, Pennsylvania. Her commitment to capturing the everyday lives of ordinary Americans reflects her own roots as the granddaughter and daughter of working-class women. Through projects like “The Notion of Family” and subsequent bodies of work focusing on issues such as healthcare, environmental crises, and industrial decline, Frazier gives voice to those who have been overlooked and forgotten.
Her immersive approach to photography blurs the lines between artist and subject, as she becomes deeply involved in the lives and struggles of those she documents. For instance, her project on the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, evolved into a long-term commitment to supporting local activists like Shea S Cobb. Frazier’s dedication to telling their stories and advocating for change underscores the transformative power of photography as a tool for social justice.
“Monuments of Solidarity” culminates with a tribute to labor leader and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, symbolizing Frazier’s ongoing efforts to challenge historical narratives and empower marginalized communities. By reframing iconic images and highlighting overlooked voices, Frazier’s work serves as a powerful call to action, inspiring viewers to recognize their own agency in effecting social change.
