Conway in the Country of Caernarvon 1776

Editor: This is Paul Sandby's "Conway in the Country of Caernarvon." It’s a sepia print, and it feels so… staged. Like a picturesque backdrop. What do you see in this piece that I might be missing? Curator: It's interesting that you see it as staged. Sandby was working in a period where the "picturesque" was highly valued. What role do you think these kinds of images played in shaping perceptions of Wales at the time? Editor: I guess it’s about crafting an image of the landscape that appeals to a specific audience, maybe making it more palatable for tourism or investment? Curator: Exactly. The print highlights the castle as a symbol of history and power, but the inclusion of figures strolling along the shore also domesticates it. What does this combination suggest about the intended audience and the function of the image? Editor: So, it's not just about the pretty scenery, but about how that scenery is used to convey a particular message. I never thought about it that way! Curator: Precisely. It’s a performance, designed to evoke a certain response and influence how people understand a place.