Untitled (portrait of woman and boy) c. 1950

Editor: This is an untitled portrait by John Howell, showing a woman and a boy. The inverted tones give it such an eerie feel. What strikes you about this image? Curator: It's interesting to consider this as a photograph, a medium often associated with realism, presented instead with such stark abstraction. What does it say about the intent behind the portrait, the role of photography in shaping identity? Editor: So, it's less about capturing reality and more about…? Curator: Perhaps about exploring the constructed nature of the image itself, prompting us to consider how portraits, even photographic ones, can be manipulated to convey specific messages or challenge societal norms. What do you think is being communicated by that particular style? Editor: It makes me question the power dynamics in portraiture, who gets to define the image and how. Thank you. Curator: Indeed, it's a potent reminder of art's capacity for social commentary.