American Photography V

Sometimes American photography can seem to dependent on the New Deal photographers of the early 20th Century. This especially true for the modern realists, such as Chris Verene. He is, by all means, an extremely gifted photographer, but sometimes the idea of realism takes from reality itself.

Then something happens. Like here in Don Cantrell’s Big Christmas Party. I am perfectly mesmerized by this photo! The cold and windy street outside, and the warm food on the red table cloth inside the restaurant. The food is lighted and coloured in a way that reminds me of old oil painted still lifes. It’s not for eating, it’s a metaphor for consolation.