Kensington 1988

Tom Wood made this black and white photograph, titled Kensington, with the camera acting as a framing device. The window acts as a boundary that emphasizes the separation between the interior and exterior worlds. The composition, in this photograph, is divided into clear horizontal layers. The foreground shows a person reading a book, drawing our attention to the act of observation and interpretation. Through the window, the middle ground reveals a street scene, complete with shops and passersby. The background extends into the distance, adding depth to the urban landscape. This arrangement encourages the viewer to reflect on the act of seeing and being seen, and how one's perspective shapes their understanding. The use of black and white enhances the textural contrasts and tonal gradations of the scene. Ultimately, it is the layering of these elements that creates meaning and a sense of depth.