Untitled (two birds cockfighting) 1951

Editor: Here we have Jack Gould's "Untitled (two birds cockfighting)," its date is unknown. The photograph, measuring a mere 6x6 centimeters, depicts two roosters facing off. It feels very raw, very immediate. What stands out to you about this piece? Curator: Considering its small scale and the directness of the imagery, I’m immediately drawn to the implied labor involved in its production. What kind of photographic materials and processes were available to Gould? Knowing this would allow us to place the work in its social and economic context. Editor: That's interesting! I hadn't thought about it that way. Considering the materials deepens my understanding. Curator: Indeed. The work challenges traditional notions of art by highlighting the relationship between labor, materiality, and even consumption. Editor: I see what you mean, it's like the process itself becomes part of the message. Thanks for that insight.