Cut and Fill, Diamond Bar, California 1984

"Cut and Fill, Diamond Bar, California" is a black and white photograph by Joe Deal, taken in 1984. The photograph depicts a construction site in Diamond Bar, California, showcasing the process of "cut and fill" — a technique where earth is moved from one area to another to create level ground for development. The stark contrast between the light sky and the dark earth evokes a sense of transformation and the dramatic impact of human intervention on the landscape. Deal's work is known for its focus on the changing American landscape and the impact of urbanization. This photograph is a powerful example of his photographic style, capturing the raw, unvarnished reality of development.