Untitled (two chimps on stage playing baseball) c. 1950

Editor: This is Jack Gould's Untitled photograph, depicting two chimps on a stage playing baseball. The negative exposure gives it a surreal quality. What compositional elements stand out to you? Curator: The stark contrast certainly draws the eye, yes. Consider how the artist has framed the chimps against the backdrop. The painted figures behind create a layered effect, almost a play within a play. Note the geometry of the baseball diamond against the organic forms of the animals. Editor: I see what you mean. So, the composition enhances the contrast between the real and artificial? Curator: Precisely. And what do you make of the tonal arrangement here? Editor: Well, I hadn’t thought about it that way, but seeing how you framed it, I get it. Thanks.