Untitled (adolescents and mother gathered around boy and girl opening presents) 1953

Editor: This photograph by Martin Schweig captures what looks like a birthday celebration. The children opening their gifts, surrounded by family, brings a sense of warmth, even in this black and white negative. What feelings does the image evoke for you? Curator: You know, the image hums with the anticipation of a shared moment. I find myself wondering, what are those presents? Are they tokens of affection, or something more? The inverted image pulls me into an alternate reality, almost like glimpsing a memory being developed. It's the quiet details that whisper the loudest, don't you think? Editor: I hadn't thought about it that way – a memory being developed. It gives the photograph such a personal touch.