Untitled (neon lights at night; pegasus) c. 1950

Editor: Here we have Jack Gould’s "Untitled (neon lights at night; pegasus)", with no creation date listed. It's quite small, just 6 by 12 centimeters. The neon Pegasus seems almost dreamlike against the dark background. What strikes you most about this photograph? Curator: Well, the Pegasus, often linked to inspiration, is interesting here. Neon, generally commercial. The juxtaposition suggests a dialogue between mythology and consumer culture. How does the presentation within the Harvard Art Museums change our perception of this commercial image? Editor: That's a great point. I hadn't considered how the museum setting elevates what might have been purely advertising. Curator: Exactly! It prompts us to consider the artist's intent and the museum's role in shaping meaning. The politics of display are at play here. Editor: I see! It makes you think about the layers of meaning within something seemingly simple. Curator: Indeed. It's a powerful commentary on art's evolving role in society.