Untitled (exterior of one story house with two car garage) c. 1950

Robert Burian’s photograph, "Untitled (exterior of one story house with two car garage)," captures a quintessential image of American suburban life. The photograph, with its inverted tones, presents a ghostly image of a generic suburban home. During the post-World War II era, the American suburb became a symbol of prosperity and the nuclear family. These homes, often mass-produced, promised a sense of security and upward mobility. Burian's photograph subtly critiques this idealized vision. The stark black and white tones, combined with the anonymity of the subject, evoke a sense of unease and detachment. The house lacks any distinct features, suggesting a loss of individuality within the conformity of suburban culture. By stripping away the color and warmth typically associated with domestic life, Burian highlights the underlying anxieties of the American dream, subtly challenging the viewer to consider the social and emotional implications of this pursuit.