Untitled 1974

Editor: We’re looking at an Untitled cyanotype from 1974 by Barbara Kasten. I find the simple composition really striking, like looking at the moon through fog. What story does it whisper to you? Curator: Oh, I love that! "Moon through fog" perfectly captures that ethereal quality. To me, this piece feels like Kasten is playing with the very nature of photography itself. She's using the cyanotype process—an early photographic technique—to create something that feels both ancient and utterly modern. What do you make of the stark abstraction of geometric shapes here, against that intense Prussian blue? It almost feels theatrical, doesn’t it? Editor: It does, almost like a stage setting for something about to happen, and yet there's nothing there but light and shadow. It feels very postmodern, defying any narrative. Curator: Absolutely. And the use of fabric is brilliant! Kasten isn't just taking a picture of something; she's constructing a scene, arranging elements to explore how light and shadow define form. I mean, does it remind you of the Pattern and Decoration movement, maybe hinting at some subtle disruption within established forms? Editor: I can see that. I never really thought of photography as being constructed like that, like sculpture almost. It’s kind of a dance of light, shadows, and fabric, I guess! Curator: Exactly! And that’s the genius, isn't it? To transform a seemingly simple process into such a layered experience. The way abstraction, form, and light come together... what’s not to love? Editor: Definitely changes how I think about photography in general! Curator: Yes, makes me want to grab some sun and shadows to play with.