Tina Modotti was an Italian photographer, model, actress and revolutionary activist, whose work has been recognized all around the world. In a lecture hosted by Prof. of Counseling Danita Redd on April 14 during the Multicultural Day festivities, she explained how Modotti’s work became famous all around the world during the 20th century.

Modotti’s photographs have been called some of the most empathetic images of her time. Her style was consider romantic and revolutionary, and her work reflected the philosophy of the people she spent time with.

“She was interested in social justice,” said Redd. “She thought she was going to change the world with her work.”

Modotti got most of her inspiration from the poor and workers from Mexico and most of the “campesinos” (Spanish word for farmers).

Modotti was surrounded by well-known artists like Edward Weston, Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, José Orozco and others during the times she spent in the United States and Mexico.

In the late 20’s, Modotti joined the Mexican Communist party and her political ideals and activities caused her to be expelled from Mexico in 1930.

Modotti was, and still is, considered one of the most outstanding female photographers of her time. Her images endures in some of the finest murals in Mexico.

“My hope is, when [people] see her images they realize there is humanity on them,” said Redd. “Everybody is humanity.”