Capitol Reef, Utah 1962

Minor White created this gelatin silver print, titled 'Capitol Reef, Utah,' sometime in the mid-20th century. The process of photography itself is fascinating – a blend of technical precision and artistic vision. Here, the material is essential. White masterfully uses light and shadow to reveal the textures and forms of the rock, playing with the tonal range achievable with the gelatin silver process. The smooth surface of the print contrasts dramatically with the rough, geological subject matter. Consider the darkroom labor involved in producing this print, the careful manipulation of chemicals and exposure times. White’s work transcends mere documentation; it's about transforming the ordinary into something evocative, something almost surreal. By focusing on the material and the making, we begin to see how White elevated photography from a simple recording method to a powerful art form.