Ramenfabricage 1929 - 1932

Editor: So, here we have "Ramenfabricage" by Atelier Umbgrove, sometime between 1929 and 1932. It’s a black and white photograph, and honestly, it feels like stepping back in time into this almost overwhelming factory space. What do you make of it? Curator: Overwhelming is a great word. It's a space where human hands meet relentless industry. Do you see how the eye is drawn back and back into that perspective? It feels almost limitless, an endless churn. Editor: Yes! And all these people seem dwarfed by the scale. Are they actually making ramen noodles? The title… Curator: Ah, there's a delightful irony! The title, roughly translated, means "Ramen Fabrication." Atelier Umbgrove was, shall we say, poking fun at the mechanization craze of the time. "Ramen," the mundane made monumental! Editor: So it's commentary? A little critical? Curator: Absolutely. Notice the realism, almost documentary in its style, but then consider the absurd title. Were they actually concerned about this changing world, do you think? Editor: Well, I was mostly thinking about how dark it is, the kind of working conditions…it feels really…stark. But maybe the artists had a larger question in mind. Curator: It captures the raw energy and ambiguity of an era grappling with its identity. Art as a reflection in a darkened mirror. Does it make you want ramen, though? Editor: Haha! Strangely, yes. I think I understand better now how this everyday thing relates to this factory space and… makes us ask what exactly are they fabricating and selling us? Curator: Precisely. We chase these kinds of reflections, looking through the eyes of other's memories and try to see ourselves, too, don’t we? A photograph with an ironic name reminds us of that, I guess!