Untitled (President William Howard Taft, Louisiana Purchase Exposition, St. Louis?) c. 1904

Editor: This is an untitled photograph by Jessie Tarbox Beals, potentially depicting President Taft at the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. It feels incredibly staged, almost propagandistic. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a visual articulation of power, wouldn't you agree? Beals, as a pioneering female photographer, captures Taft amidst symbols of American authority. The framing feels deliberate, almost imposing, what narrative does it create considering the historical context of early 20th century America? Editor: It makes me think about the role of photography in shaping public perception and solidifying power structures. Was Beals complicit in that? Curator: That’s precisely the question we need to ask. Considering the limited roles often afforded to women at the time, her access is significant. But does that access come at a price, perhaps reinforcing existing hierarchies? Editor: So, it's about unpacking the layers of power, gender, and representation within a seemingly straightforward image. Curator: Exactly. And understanding how Beals navigated those complexities as a woman in a male-dominated field.