Wangfujing Dong Lu, Shanghai 1997

Thomas Struth made this photograph, Wangfujing Dong Lu, Shanghai, capturing a street scene in China's bustling metropolis. The image offers a glimpse into a society navigating the complexities of globalization and cultural identity. Note the Coca-Cola signs lining the street, symbols of Western consumer culture which have been superimposed onto the urban landscape. The signs, while ubiquitous, exist alongside signs written in Chinese, indicating a negotiation between local and global influences. The composition and muted colors create a sense of detachment, inviting us to consider our own position as observers of this cultural exchange. The figures that populate the scene, from pedestrians to uniformed personnel, hint at the various strata of Chinese society. This photograph encapsulates a moment of transition, where tradition and modernity collide in the everyday lives of its inhabitants. It reminds us to reflect on the human dimension of globalization.