Pines, Monterey c. 1920 - 1930

Editor: This photograph, "Pines, Monterey" by Leopold Hugo, captures these incredible trees. It feels like they're observing something. What's your take on the composition? Curator: I see a narrative about land use and power. Consider Monterey's history, its indigenous populations, and the extractive industries that shaped the landscape. How do these stoic pines stand as witnesses to that story? Editor: So, you're saying the trees aren't just trees; they're symbols of something larger? Curator: Exactly. Think about the role of photography itself in documenting and often romanticizing the West. Whose perspective are we seeing, and what is being left out of the frame? Editor: That’s a powerful way to look at what's depicted. Curator: By understanding the social and political dimensions, we can see the artistry of landscape photography in a fresh and compelling light. Editor: I'll never look at a landscape the same way again.