View near Picnic Grounds, Cypress Drive c. 1883 - 1885

Editor: Here we have Carleton Watkins' photograph, "View near Picnic Grounds, Cypress Drive." It's a study in greyscale textures, mainly rock. What strikes you most about it? Curator: For me, it's the geological processes evident in each stone. The photograph itself is a product of its time—a wet plate collodion print, labor intensive, revealing a particular understanding of landscape as commodity and picturesque view. How does Watkins’ choice of this specific viewpoint shape our understanding? Editor: That’s fascinating. I hadn't considered the labor involved in its creation. I'll definitely look at Watkins’ work with fresh eyes now. Curator: Indeed, considering the materiality and making shifts how we value the image.