Untitled (little girl posing as ballerina, arms up) 1949

Editor: This is an untitled photograph by Ken Whitmire Associates, depicting a girl posing as a ballerina. It’s quite haunting, with the negative space and overlaying lines. What's your take on this piece? Curator: The image presents a fascinating perspective on the means of image production. The choice of black and white highlights the photographic process itself. What social forces enable a child to have this kind of portrait made? Editor: That’s interesting. I hadn’t considered that – the privilege inherent in capturing an image like this. Curator: Exactly. Considering the materials – the photographic paper, the ink – and the labor involved, it forces us to think about the economic context surrounding artistic creation and its accessibility. Editor: I see what you mean. Thanks for highlighting the means of production. Curator: My pleasure. It's important to consider the social and economic aspects of art.