Susan–Central Park N.Y.C. (III) 1951

Robert Rauschenberg took this photograph of Susan in Central Park, New York City. Susan seems to be in a reverie, leaning into the embrace of a tree, her arm extended upwards into the tree's hollow. What’s she reaching for? This photo reminds me of Rauschenberg's Combines, where he layered painting, sculpture, and found objects. Here, the layering is of light and shadow, of human and nature. It feels like a quiet collaboration between Susan, Rauschenberg, and the tree, each offering something to the composition. The textures are so lovely here, from the smoothness of her face to the rough bark of the tree and the striations of her dress. Rauschenberg, like many artists, was deeply engaged in a dialogue with the world around him and with other artists, constantly borrowing, remixing, and reimagining. This photo is such an example of finding beauty and meaning in the everyday. It feels open-ended, inviting our own stories and interpretations.