Secretariaat 1931 - 1934

Atelier Kurkdjian created this photograph titled 'Secretariaat' sometime in the 20th century. It's like stepping back in time, isn't it? The composition is so meticulously arranged, with these lines of desks receding into the distance. Each person seems absorbed in their work, yet part of a larger whole. The tonal range feels both stark and subtle. It is reminiscent of the work of Bernd and Hilla Becher, who approached their photographic work as a means of cataloging and documenting various examples of industrial architecture. It makes me think about how much labor goes into creating art, and also how much labor is involved in the everyday, often unseen work that keeps society moving. Like how an artist layers paint, these people were layering actions and decisions that shaped the world. It gives me a feeling of reverence, and the composition is very satisfying to look at.