Artist Statement:
I have always been intrigued by its massive structures, looming over our town. As a Bethlehem native, I still remember the smell of industry and its smoky atmosphere while it wasstill in operation. The community surrounding the steel is also of interest to me. While taking pictures, I realized just how culturally expansive the area was at that time because of the
dichotomy of the church steeples which are visible from the higher elevations. Several ethnic groups formed their churches and clubs, maintaining bonds that still exist today. I imagine the small row homes su...

Artist Statement:
I have always been intrigued by its massive structures, looming over our town. As a Bethlehem native, I still remember the smell of industry and its smoky atmosphere while it wasstill in operation. The community surrounding the steel is also of interest to me. While taking pictures, I realized just how culturally expansive the area was at that time because of the
dichotomy of the church steeples which are visible from the higher elevations. Several ethnic groups formed their churches and clubs, maintaining bonds that still exist today. I imagine the small row homes surrounded by Steelworkers, soot, and dirt. Now, the buildings are left to decay. A clear symbol of the decline of industry in America. History is crumbling before our
eyes. Aesthetically, however, the Bethlehem Steel is decaying beautifully as the rust illuminates in the sunlight with gorgeous golds, blues, and browns.