"Shiphead," Angola, Louisiana 18 - 1999

"Shiphead," a 1999 photograph by Deborah Luster, is a poignant portrayal of an elderly Black man in Angola, Louisiana. The image, reminiscent of a tintype, captures a moment of quiet contemplation, with the subject's gaze meeting the viewer's directly. Luster's work often explores themes of race, identity, and the American South, creating intimate and thought-provoking portraits of marginalized communities. This image is a powerful example of Luster's ability to capture the dignity and resilience of her subjects.