George van Renesse 1933 - 1936

Curator: This photograph of George van Renesse, taken sometime between 1933 and 1936, is a compelling piece, rendered in gelatin silver print by Godfried de Groot. I find it interesting that it is presented as an element within a book spread. Editor: Yes, the fact that it’s within the spread certainly contextualizes it. I see a thoughtful portrait, but what strikes you about this particular image from a materialist perspective? Curator: Well, consider the materiality of gelatin silver print. Its mass reproducibility transformed portraiture from a luxury into a widely accessible commodity. Also, I see here what looks like information on the book's spread next to the image. That choice of framing really elevates the social context of this photograph. Editor: Social context as it relates to the subject matter? Or as it relates to its creation? Curator: Both, really. Think about the labor involved: the photographer, the paper production, the developing process. Who had access to photography and who was being represented? The adjacent writing is about him, I suspect? It lends to how photography can be used to craft a narrative. Editor: You're right. It also tells me he was a pianist! Is that something you feel adds to the artwork at all? Curator: Definitely. That connects the physical creation of this photograph to the cultural value and labor tied to music and performance. Both become objects of cultural consumption through their respective means of production. What did you find most striking about this spread? Editor: I hadn’t considered it in that way, thank you!