Romulus and Remus Possibly 1988 - 1994

Jim Goldberg created this photograph, Romulus and Remus, with gelatin silver. The tones move from the darkest black to the brightest white, with so much texture and detail in between that it almost feels like you could reach out and touch the rough bark of the tree, or the soft fabric of the dress. I love the way that the stark contrast between light and shadow creates a sense of mystery, and the way the composition draws your eye to the figure lying in the center of the frame. That figure under the tree, bathed in a pool of light, is so compelling; the branches above cradle the body like it's being protected. The way the light falls, creates a sense of drama that reminds me of Caravaggio – this feels so painterly with its play of dark and light. The print itself has this beautiful, almost velvety quality. I think of Diane Arbus and her ability to find beauty in the unexpected.