Ruth Putter (1919-2014), was a photographer, activist, and feminist, whose body of work spanned more than seven decades and has been included in photography and feminist publications, calendars, newspapers, museums, and galleries around the world. Heavily influenced by Henri Cartier Bresson, master of the “Decisive Moment”, she was also a member of the Photo League in New York, an organization of photographers who used documentary photography as a compelling tool for social change. This paper will examine her imagery and writings regarding such events as the “Bloody Nuns” anti-war protest of General Alexander Haig’s Commencement Speech at Syracuse University in 1981 and the Women’s Peace Encampment at Romulus, NY. It will also discuss her dedication to social justice and support of ArtRage Gallery in Syracuse, NY.
About the presenterLaurie Gilmore Selleck
Professor of Visual Communications and Associate Dean for Assessment of Student Learning at Cazenovia College