The artwork “Untitled (Hands), from the Series Day Sleeper,” created by Dorothea Lange, is a remarkable piece that exemplifies the Social Realism art movement. As a photograph, the artwork delves into the genre with profound simplicity and directness, capturing a specific moment and subject with depth and clarity.
The artwork features a close-up black and white image of two hands. The composition focuses on the intricate details of the palms and fingers, emphasizing the texture and lines present on the skin. One hand appears to be on top of the other, both resting on a flat surface, possibly symbolizing rest or work. The monochrome palette accentuates the contrast and highlights the earnestness and narrative of everyday human experiences, resonating deeply with the Social Realism movement that Lange is renowned for.