Untitled (The Corner House, built by Norman Shaw, view of front facade) c. 1869

Curator: Taking a look at this sepia toned photograph, we see an “Untitled” print dating back to around 1869. It captures the front facade of The Corner House, a structure built by Norman Shaw. Editor: Immediately, I feel transported. There’s a stillness to it, almost as if time itself has been captured. The building is solid and imposing. Curator: Precisely. What intrigues me is how the landscaping – look at those sculpted hedges! – interacts with the rather severe architecture. It is architecture married with landscape art! What do you make of that relationship? Editor: I notice a strong contrast. The house projects this medieval, defensive solidity, whereas the manicured greenery around it introduces a note of domestication, even playfulness. Think about those round shapes, and even the contrast of sunlight and shadow on the yard! Perhaps this is representative of the house acting as a refuge? Curator: It’s interesting that you mention refuge because Shaw’s work often references historical styles. You see elements of Gothic and Queen Anne styles combined here. To me, this implies not only personal but also collective memory. How does the house’s structure work as a symbolic form? Editor: Right away, turrets signify status. They always have; for observation and command! Here, I read them as more than functional. They become declarations – of power, of longevity. Castles carry a memory of safety. Curator: Indeed. The material, the stone itself, evokes durability, doesn’t it? It whispers of ages gone by, now imprinted on a domestic dwelling. And I feel like there are signs of someone tending the landscape... I find the play of historical styles with contemporary life really interesting. Editor: So the choice of landscape is as thoughtful as the choice of material? I hadn’t considered the act of photographing this particular landscape so carefully. That it speaks to themes of heritage, but lived heritage. It seems to pose the question "what will remain, and what can grow". Curator: Absolutely. Looking closer, you can almost feel the history radiating from this beautiful print! Editor: A thought-provoking encounter with permanence, and transience!