Twee mannen in klederdracht, onder wie één in vrouwenkleding c. 1900 - 1910

This photograph, by G. Hidderley, shows two men, one in women’s clothing. It’s a small picture, only about 7.5 x 9.8 cm, so it feels quite intimate. The photo is sepia-toned, which gives it a sense of age. You can see the texture of the paper, and the way the light catches the surface adds depth. Look at the way the man in women's clothing has his arm around his friend. His smile, almost mischievous, tells you that this is a story of deep, enduring connection. The picture is not sharp, not perfect. It feels like a chance encounter. This reminds me of the photographs of Nan Goldin, whose loose, diaristic images celebrate community and challenge traditional social norms. Like her work, this image feels like a celebration of the everyday, and all the joy and ambiguity that can hold.