Untitled (portrait of young man in suit, reading book) c. 1955

Paul Gittings created this untitled photographic print of a young man in a suit absorbed in a book, which now resides at the Harvard Art Museums. The image presents us with a study of masculinity and intellect, subtly framed within the socio-cultural expectations of success and knowledge. The suit, a uniform of sorts, speaks volumes about aspiration and conformity, while the act of reading symbolizes self-improvement. There's a quiet tension in the image; the man’s posture suggests introspection. Gittings captures a moment of solitude, inviting us to contemplate the internal life of a young man navigating the complexities of identity and ambition. The high contrast amplifies the emotional weight of the scene, making us reflect on the intimate relationship between personal growth and societal roles. This portrait is not just a depiction of an individual, but an exploration of the self.