Untitled (people in old-fashioned clothes) c. 1950

Curator: This photograph, simply titled "Untitled (people in old-fashioned clothes)" is attributed to Jack Gould. While undated, its presence in the Harvard Art Museums offers a fascinating glimpse into past social performances. Editor: It certainly evokes a sense of bygone days, doesn't it? The clothing and the informal gathering give it an almost theatrical quality, as though a play is about to begin. Curator: Yes, and note the placement of figures in relation to the "General Outdoor Adv Co" sign. Is it merely background, or a commentary on commercialism encroaching on tradition? The balloon the child is holding seems to suggest the latter. Editor: The balloon is interesting; balloons are often symbols of fleeting joy and childhood innocence. This imagery contrasted against the old-fashioned clothing could imply a longing for times past. Curator: Perhaps it's a subtle critique of progress and modernity, a visual poem about the loss of simpler times. Editor: Maybe it is a reminder that even in moments of play and nostalgia, time continues to float away, like that very balloon.