Drie jongens in klederdracht, zittend op een paar bielzen 1920 - 1940

This photograph, "Three Boys in Traditional Costume, Sitting on a Few Ties," by G. Hidderley presents a sepia-toned glimpse into another time. The image feels aged, like a faded memory, where the contrast has softened, and the details emerge gradually. The sepia tone mutes the colors and brings the photograph into a singular field, and it’s this quality which really catches my eye. The sameness in tone and color feels almost like a watercolor wash. The lack of color simplifies the image and focuses the eye on the three boys and their curious and somewhat solemn expressions. You can see the hand of the artist in the placement of the children and the background: together, these elements create a strong and captivating image. I think of artists like Marlene Dumas, who also work with the photographic image and a muted palette to create something with strong emotional resonance. Just like painting, photography is a conversation and exchange of ideas across time. It embraces ambiguity and multiple interpretations over fixed meanings.