Gang discussion- Red in sun glasses 1948

Gordon Parks made this photograph, Gang discussion – Red in sunglasses, printed on paper, and it captures a moment that feels both intimate and distant. The image is mostly tonal; shades of grey, and it's how those shades move and shift, creating light and shadow, that brings the scene to life. Look at the folds in the clothing, how they suggest movement and a kind of nervous energy. Then there's the texture – you can almost feel the weight of the fabric. The sunglasses worn by one of the figures act as a focal point, obscuring his gaze and adding a layer of mystery. The composition has a lovely abstract quality, with the arrangement of bodies and hats, creating an interlocking set of geometric shapes. The photograph reminds me of the work of Roy DeCarava, an artist who used a similar palette and tone, to create emotionally resonant images of everyday life. Parks invites us to consider how each image offers a unique perspective, reflecting the diverse ways in which we perceive and engage with the world around us.