East New York, Brooklyn (elevated subway) 1997

Editor: This is Edward Grazda's black and white photograph, "East New York, Brooklyn (elevated subway)." The harsh contrasts create a feeling of urban grit. What story do you think this image is trying to tell? Curator: It speaks to the public role of infrastructure and commerce in shaping community. The elevated train, the fruit stand—they're both vital to the neighborhood’s rhythm. Notice how the scaffolding almost merges with the train structure, suggesting constant change. Editor: So, it's about how essential services define a place? Curator: Precisely. How do these everyday scenes impact the social fabric? Grazda invites us to consider the politics inherent in documenting such ordinary moments. We must ask ourselves who is being documented and for what purpose. Editor: I hadn't thought about the political implications before. Curator: These images are never neutral. Editor: That's a powerful way to see this photograph.