New Year’s Eve Party, American Legion, Bangor Possibly 1980 - 1983

Editor: This is Larry Fink’s photograph, “New Year’s Eve Party, American Legion, Bangor.” It's a black and white print featuring two men in party hats. There's a somberness to the image that contradicts the celebratory context. How do you interpret this work? Curator: It's a fascinating capture of class and performance. Fink's work often explores social dynamics, right? Think about the American Legion - a space historically coded with specific ideas about masculinity and patriotism. How does the photograph challenge or reinforce those ideas? Editor: I see what you mean. There's a certain tension there, like they're performing a role. Curator: Exactly. By looking at these subtle indicators, we can investigate how power and identity are negotiated within social spaces. What do you make of their gaze? Editor: It feels like they are staring through you, or past the viewer, so direct yet remote. Thanks, I never would have considered that! Curator: It's about opening up a dialogue.