Gary Galey, Angola, Louisiana 18 - 1999

Deborah Luster's "Gary Galey, Angola, Louisiana" (18-1999) is a poignant black and white photograph from her series "The Delta" which documents life in Louisiana's Angola prison. The image captures Gary Galey, a prisoner, with his eyes closed, his hands clasped in prayer, and a question mark etched onto his forehead. The photograph is reminiscent of the 19th century tintype portraits of inmates, using a similar composition and photographic technique to explore themes of identity, faith, and incarceration.