Jimmy Webster (Lower West Side series) 1992

Milton Rogovin captured this image of Jimmy Webster, part of the Lower West Side series, using photography's unique ability to freeze a moment. There's a raw honesty in Rogovin's approach. It's not about fancy lighting or perfect composition; it's about seeing and sharing what's there. Look at the way Jimmy is sitting on those steps, surrounded by his tools. The texture of the wood, the weight of the equipment – it's all so present. The neutral palette focuses our attention on the subject, and the composition draws you into the image, like you’re sitting right there on the curb. Rogovin's work reminds me of the social realism of the WPA artists. Like those artists, Rogovin is finding the beauty in the everyday lives of ordinary people. And isn't that what art is all about, anyway?