Untitled 1992

Editor: So, here we have Thomas Roma’s “Untitled” photograph from 1992. It looks like it was captured inside of a church during what seems to be a worship service, a lady sings, a kid seems about to begin as well. It strikes me how intimate the scene feels, despite the presence of what seems like a musical band and other congregants whose arm stretches to lay on the woman as if to give her strength and blessing. What jumps out to you when you look at this, looking at the image’s historical and social backdrop? Curator: I immediately consider the power dynamics Roma is capturing. The role of the Black church as a space for communal expression and resistance throughout history is important. The image also seems very raw, almost like photojournalism; I find that particularly significant, particularly considering his body of work which shows his passion for Italian neighborhoods. This particular church photograph captures that unique kind of safe space and also gives prominence to Black faith tradition which I consider central to a more inclusive art history. What do you think this inclusion and sense of community tells us? Editor: That’s an interesting idea of a safe space. The equipment, like the amplifiers set on milk crates, to me also emphasizes a sense of immediacy, resourcefulness, of like, raw authenticity. It adds to the intimacy and maybe reveals something about how religious institutions grow. The worship could happen in humble settings too and still mean a lot to them. Curator: Exactly! Think about the institutions that traditionally have supported art – museums, galleries, wealthy patrons. This photograph seems to suggest an alternative circuit, a grassroots support system where the community itself fosters creativity and spiritual expression. It poses a challenge: does it imply we also must examine and maybe celebrate overlooked locations that are not exactly museums or prestigious galleries? Editor: I see what you mean! Considering whose art gets seen, this really underlines the significance of documenting the artistry thriving outside the conventional art world. Curator: Precisely. Reflecting on this now, I understand Roma's ability to illuminate shared humanity through diverse cultural spaces. What began as a snapshot is more of a reminder of who art is *for* in the first place.