Laborer--People 1941 - 1945

"Laborer--People" is a black and white photograph taken by Robert Frank between 1941 and 1945. The photograph captures a laborer using a jackhammer to break up concrete for a construction project in an urban setting. Frank's photo is a poignant example of his signature style, characterized by candid, intimate perspectives on everyday life. This photo, part of his extensive "The Americans" project, showcases the harsh realities of labor and its impact on individuals within a larger urban environment. The photo’s close-up composition emphasizes the laborer's focused determination, highlighting the physicality of the task at hand. Frank's work often explored themes of social class, isolation, and the human condition, making "Laborer--People" a powerful testament to the unseen labor that shapes the urban landscape.