Over the House-Tops--New York c. 20th century

Here we see a small black and white photograph by William E. Wilmerding called *Over the House-Tops--New York.* I'm thinking about the physical act of making this photograph. It is striking how the urban smokestacks mirror the towering skyscraper in the distance. With what care and effort, has the artist walked the streets of New York seeking the perfect vantage point? With what patience, has the artist waited for the opportune moment to capture this scene? Maybe Wilmerding wanted to document New York’s architectural growth; its bold statement of modernity. Or, perhaps he was more interested in the city’s environmental impact, pointing to the murky presence of pollution and the dark clouds billowing above. Photography and painting are kindred spirits. Both involve a process of addition and subtraction, composing and editing, light and dark. Wilmerding’s photo shares qualities with the tonalist paintings by Whistler and the urban landscapes by the Ashcan school. All these artists were in conversation, inspiring one another’s creativity. The meanings of art shift over time, allowing for multiple interpretations.