Child and Doll, North Carolina after 1984

Gordon Parks's "Child and Doll, North Carolina" (after 1984) is a poignant black and white photograph capturing a young girl in a white hat standing in front of a tree. The girl, dressed in a patterned dress, holds a doll close to her chest, their faces both obscured by shadows, creating a sense of vulnerability and innocence. Parks, known for his social commentary and exploration of the African American experience, likely intended to portray the complexities of childhood and the enduring power of play in challenging circumstances. His work, characterized by its stark realism, is a powerful testament to the human spirit.