Donnell. Dion. Kawoun. Jason. Zalone. Nigel. Marty. John. Academy's Most Wanted. August 6, 1997. 1997

Editor: This is Elsa Dorfman's large-format Polaroid, "Donnell. Dion. Kawoun. Jason. Zalone. Nigel. Marty. John. Academy's Most Wanted," dated August 6, 1997. The boys' clothing choices seem very deliberate. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: The materiality of Polaroid film itself is key here. The immediate, almost snapshot-like quality contrasts with the staged composition. The title suggests a playful rebellion, but what does it mean to be "most wanted" within the context of an academy, and who is consuming this image? Editor: So, you're saying that the materials and the way the image is made influence the meaning? Curator: Precisely. The large format elevates a seemingly casual group portrait, prompting us to consider the labor and deliberate choices behind its production and circulation. I hadn't considered the interplay between the boys' garments and the title.