Untitled 1992

This photograph by Thomas Roma captures a quiet moment of devotion, printed on standard sized paper to allow the image to breathe. Look at how Roma plays with light and shadow, creating a beautiful contrast between the bright pages of the books and the darker tones of the women's clothing. The textures in this photograph are amazing, from the smooth skin of the young women to the intricate patterns of their dresses. Notice how the light catches the folds of the fabric, creating a sense of depth and dimension. The surfaces seem real, touchable, even in monochrome. Roma creates a palpable emotional space. It puts me in mind of other artists of the period like Roy DeCarava, who made a career of finding the sublime in small everyday moments. The relationship between these artists and their subjects encourages an embrace of ambiguity, suggesting a multitude of interpretations.