Untitled (two toddlers in dresses standing behind armchair) c. 1950

Editor: This intriguing, undated photograph by Lucian and Mary Brown, simply titled "Untitled (two toddlers in dresses standing behind armchair)," presents a rather eerie scene. What do you make of the way the image plays with themes of visibility and concealment, especially considering the children's race? Curator: It's a powerful image. The starkness emphasizes the children's presence while the composition evokes a sense of unease, placing them on the threshold of visibility. The image challenges the historical erasure and objectification of Black children, inviting us to consider their agency. What do you think the artists were trying to say about race and representation? Editor: Perhaps they were seeking to reclaim their image, positioning them as subjects rather than objects. It certainly gives me a lot to think about. Curator: Exactly, it highlights the complexities of representing Black childhood within a history of visual exploitation, demanding a critical engagement.