This photograph taken by Dawoud Bey is named “Kathy Anderson and Jarrett Lampley” Titled after the woman and young boy featured in the picture. This is from a series of photographs called “Strangers/Community” The expression on the faces of the subjects evokes a powerful feeling. The woman has her arms crossed with a stern look on her face. While the boy is seated resting his head in his hand. His expression is more so one of longing or dissatisfaction. Despite their obvious differences in gender, the overall mood and composition of the picture creates what almost appears to be a physical barrier between the subjects. Possibly based on racial guidelines or their economic standings. Based on the photograph and the title of the series “Strangers/Community” we can infer that the photographer is attempting to suggest that unresolved issues regarding racial equality still exist in todays world.
Bey took full advantage of his surroundings to develop the composition of this photograph. The most obvious feature is the railing which is centered in the frame and divides the two subjects. This could have many underlying meanings. The perspective of the railing is very suggestive. It is such that it appears to be very large at the beginning and stretches far into the distance. The railing is suggestive in that it can be compared to the enduring struggle of civil rights. It starts up in the foreground and reaches far into the distance, possibly to represent the on-going fight for equality which is continually being fought. It could also be said to represent the stark contrast between the two subjects by highlighting their differences. The photograph was taken from a head-on vantage point. The position of the subjects is also very suggestive. The woman is standing tall with her arms folded, presenting a strong domineering figure. While the boy appears to be sullen and gloomy. From their positions and facial expressions the viewer can attempt to infer that an underlying tension exists between the two subjects. Neither seems to be giving the other much acknowledgement. The lighting is very dim. The dull grey background presents gloomy feeling. Although focus of this image is not so much the background color but the skin color of the subjects. The overall composition of this photograph allows the viewer to come to the realization that discrimination still exists. Even in subtle forms.
I commend you for picking a controversial photo. The photo does suggest that the gulf between these two people cannot be bridged. The use of the railing in the photo really underlines this as you state.