Lacrosse Player c. 20th century

Curator: Well, this is Harry Sternberg's "Lacrosse Player." It's got this bold, graphic quality, almost like a woodcut. Editor: Yes, but with a sort of naive energy. The player looks so earnest, standing there with his stick, surrounded by these little action figures. I wonder about the history of lacrosse and its ties to Native American communities. Curator: Sternberg was always interested in capturing the everyday, the kind of athletic ideal on a more human level. I find it charming. It’s like a team emblem from a parallel dimension. Editor: Perhaps, but that charm might mask a deeper issue. Who gets to play, who is excluded? Looking at the CHS on the shirt, this feels like an exclusionary preppy world. Curator: Possibly. But Sternberg's graphic style makes you think about motion, competition, what it means to be part of a team. I’m seeing the joy of the game. Editor: It’s a bit complicated, isn't it? We can admire the artist’s skill while questioning the imagery. Curator: Exactly, and that’s why looking at art like this is always an adventure.