School Street Barber Shop, Belmont, MA c. 20th century

Editor: Rodger Kingston's photograph, "School Street Barber Shop, Belmont, MA," captures a quintessential small-town scene. There's a real sense of nostalgia in the light and the composition. What stands out to you? Curator: Consider the visual language here: the barber shop pole echoed by the vertical "DRUGS" sign, the orange car mirroring the traffic light. What do these repetitions suggest to you about the rhythms of daily life in Belmont? Editor: It's like Kingston is pointing out the familiar, almost ritualistic, elements of this place. Curator: Precisely. The image becomes a symbol, a cultural artifact representing small-town America and its enduring appeal. Did you notice how the traffic light is glowing green? Editor: Good eye! I hadn't noticed that. Curator: So, there you have it, a symbol of hope or perhaps continuity. I have learned a lot here, and hope you did too. Editor: I did! Thanks for pointing out those details.