Untitled (parent and children walking by "Good ship Lollypop" shop) c. 1950

Editor: Here we have Jack Gould’s small, untitled photograph of a parent and children walking past a shop called “Good Ship Lollypop.” It's hard to tell the specific mood because of the negative image, but it feels like a commentary on consumerism. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The inverted image complicates a straightforward reading. It certainly points to consumption, but what kind? "Good Ship Lollypop" suggests childhood innocence, yet the family appears almost spectral. This image may touch on the myth of idyllic family life and the often-unfulfilled promises made by consumer culture. What do you think? Editor: That's a great point. It’s like the negative image underscores the darker side of these ideals. Curator: Exactly. Perhaps Gould is prompting us to consider who profits from these constructed images of family and leisure. Editor: I’ve never thought about it that way. I see so much more now.