Samuel Lane Jr., "Pimp," Transylvania, Louisiana 15 - 2000

Deborah Luster’s "Samuel Lane Jr., 'Pimp,' Transylvania, Louisiana" (15-2000) is a captivating portrait from her series "One Big Self." The image, presented in the style of a tintype, shows the subject, Samuel Lane Jr., shirtless with a tattoo across his chest. Luster's work explores themes of identity, masculinity, and the complexities of rural Southern life, often drawing attention to the unspoken narratives of marginalized communities. The intimacy and stark realism of the image highlight the subject’s personal story, allowing for reflection on the individual behind the label. This piece, with its historical aesthetic, compels viewers to consider how we see and perceive others.