Untitled (woman in evening dress coming through decorative gate in yard) c. 1950

This photograph by Paul Gittings presents a woman in an evening dress, posed by a decorative gate. The process of photography itself is crucial here. Consider the labor involved in staging this image - the posing, the lighting, and the development of the negative. The choice of black and white film affects the image too. Rather than attempting to capture reality, this adds a layer of interpretation. The stark contrast enhances the texture of the woman's dress, highlighting the intricate patterns and shimmering quality of the fabric. Similarly, the ironwork gate is not merely a backdrop; it is a crafted object. The metal has been worked, shaped, and welded by hand. The image invites us to consider the social context of both the dress and the gate. These suggest a world of leisure and affluence. The photograph itself then becomes a commodity, destined for display and consumption. Ultimately, this photograph is a testament to the power of materials and making in shaping our perceptions and social relations.