Poplar Trees, The Fenway, Boston c. 20th century

Editor: Here we have Joseph Jablonski's print, "Poplar Trees, The Fenway, Boston." It's a lovely, tranquil scene. What do you see in this piece that might not be immediately apparent? Curator: The Fenway, even then, represented a specific class and access to green spaces. Considering Jablonski's choice of subject, is he celebrating this exclusivity, or perhaps critiquing it? How might this seemingly serene image engage with the realities of urban development and social stratification at the time? Editor: I never considered that angle. I was too caught up in the trees themselves! Curator: Exactly. Landscape isn't just about pretty scenes; it's often a reflection of power, access, and societal values. Editor: That’s such an insightful way to look at it. It really changes how I perceive the artwork. Curator: These beautiful trees silently tell a story beyond their aesthetic appeal.