• When I first saw this image, my eyes were drawn to its full tonal range, exquisite composition, and sense of movement. The white buildings provided a perfect backdrop for the human element in the photo. The almost abstract figure in the billowing dress and silhouette profile added mystery to the image. This photo is rich. I wouldn't change anything about this gorgeous image.

    Words by OVIE CARTER, Photojournalist/Winner, 1975 Pulitzer Prize

  • Hardly anyone thinks about the word "patina" unless they're solving an obscure cross-word  question like, "A weathered surface layer on metal that gives it that unique, aged appearance (6 letters)." But, if you're a steel junkie like me, you see it's beauty everywhere.  Chicago’s Richard J. Daley Center, as well as its untitled and iconic Pablo Picasso sculpture, was the first building to be entirely built with exposed weathering steel in 1965. What's amazing about this magic material is that it rusts on purpose, forming a beautiful and impervious array of rusty reds, purples, browns, and blacks that prevent any further corrosion. That's why there's no need to paint it, and why it has that irregularly beautiful texture and color. What I also find incredible is the amount of critical thought and engineering that went into making sure that the sculpture remains standing under its own weight. Next time you walk by it, think about all of the engineering and welding science that went into figuring out how to support all of that weight on just two small points where the "ears" meet the base.

    Words by BRIAN RAFF, Vice President of Sustainability and Government Relations at the American Institute of Steel Construction

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