Groepsportret van de hockeyers van Schule Schloss Salem c. 1929

This photograph of the Schule Schloss Salem hockey team captures a moment in time with a specific material presence. Made through the traditional photographic processes of its era, the image is more than just a visual record; it is a material object. The sepia tones and the paper's texture subtly communicate the era's values and aesthetics. Every detail, from the players' uniforms to the backdrop of the school, is captured through the lens. The arrangement of the subjects, with the goalie seated in front, suggests an intentionality. The materiality of the photograph is inextricably linked to the social context. In the early days of photography, the process involved complex chemistry, skilled labor, and specialized tools. The photograph becomes a tangible artifact that connects us to the past, reminding us of the labor and skill involved in capturing images. It challenges us to recognize the importance of materials and making in understanding the full meaning of an artwork.