Untitled (Washington Square Park) c. 1935 - 1940

Rita Albers made this etching titled "Untitled (Washington Square Park)" sometime in the mid-20th century. It depicts a cluster of men gathered in this well-known public space in New York City. The print captures a moment of everyday life, revealing the social dynamics of urban spaces and the people who occupy them. The men depicted appear to be working-class, distinguished by their caps, suits, and weathered faces. They form small communities within the larger park, reading newspapers, smoking, and engaging in conversation. Albers skillfully uses the etching technique to create a sense of depth and texture, emphasizing the gritty reality of urban life. Images of the park like this would have provided accessible spaces for social interaction and respite from the intensity of city living. To fully understand this piece, we might consult historical archives and census records to learn about the demographics of Washington Square Park during this period. This artwork underscores the importance of art as a reflection of social conditions and a means of documenting the lives of ordinary people.