Zurich 1945

Robert Frank captured "Zurich" with his camera, creating a poignant black and white photograph. Born in Switzerland in 1924, Frank's own identity as a Swiss Jew informed his outsider perspective, which he later developed further as an immigrant in America. Here, in this busy street scene, red flags are being held aloft, perhaps in a display of patriotism, or in protest. The buildings loom, commercial signs vie for attention, and the blurred figures suggest a society in motion. The photograph encapsulates a specific time and place, yet it also resonates with universal themes of collective identity and political expression. Frank's work often challenges traditional narratives, offering a gritty, unfiltered glimpse into the everyday. "There is one thing the photograph must contain, the humanity of the moment," he said. Zurich reflects not only Frank's personal journey but also the shared human experience of navigating the complexities of modern life.