Zurich 1945

Robert Frank captured this image in Zurich using photography, a relatively new medium at the time. It shows a marching band and flags, likely for some civic occasion. The flags are particularly interesting. They appear to be made of densely woven fabric, perhaps wool or a wool blend, judging from how they drape, and the way the light falls on them. The flags’ bold graphics seem to be commercially produced, but also embellished with hand-sewn details. The material heft and skilled handwork stands in contrast to photography, which captures a scene with great speed and detail. Frank’s image suggests the collision of these two different modes of production. On the one hand, the social rituals of a band and handmade banners; and on the other, the democratizing effect of photography to record fleeting moments in time. Understanding the full meaning of an artwork requires us to consider materials, making, and context, challenging any division between high art and craft.