Colombo, 2006, in Main Street, the Pettah Possibly 2006 - 2014

Leo Rubinfien's photograph, taken in 2006 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is rendered in a stark, high-contrast black and white, a visual decision that really focuses your attention. It's not just about capturing a scene, it's about rendering this fellow's gaze. The image has a strong documentary feel but it really pushes on that concept. The grain is visible, giving the photograph a tactile quality; you can almost feel the grit of the street. Look at the way his shirt is rendered, that relentless pattern mirroring the crowds behind him. The man’s face is so intensely present, you can see every line etched by time and experience, and the way Rubinfien has framed the shot, we become a part of it. Rubinfien, like other photographers such as Robert Frank, isn't afraid to delve into the complex realities of life. His work invites us to look beyond the surface, seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition. It reminds us that art isn't about simple answers; it's about asking the tough questions.