Untitled (exterior ice cream company, employees) c. 1940

Editor: This photograph by Harris & Ewing presents the employees of Brimer's Ice Cream Company. It's interesting to see such a large group in what appears to be a formal setting. What can you tell me about the social context surrounding this kind of image? Curator: This image prompts us to consider labor and community. Group portraits like this were common, projecting an image of unity. Consider the power dynamics, however. Who is included, who is excluded? What narratives are reinforced by this display of collective identity, and whose voices remain unheard? Editor: So it's about more than just a company photo? Curator: Absolutely. It’s a document reflecting social hierarchies. How does the image contribute to the narrative of the company, and what does it say about the role of these workers in society? Editor: It gives me a lot to think about in terms of representation. Curator: Precisely, and representation carries so much weight. The camera lens wields a great deal of power.