Georgia O'Keeffe 1922

This close-up portrait of Georgia O’Keeffe was captured by Alfred Stieglitz sometime in the early 20th century using gelatin silver print. The image's tones feel like a delicate dance between light and shadow, revealing the subtle textures of skin and fabric. It's interesting to consider how Stieglitz manipulated the developing process to achieve such a range of contrasts. There's an almost painterly quality to the way the light falls across O’Keeffe’s face, creating a sense of depth and revealing the nuances of her expression. I keep returning to the way the shadows frame her eyes, drawing you into her gaze. It's a gaze that feels both intense and vulnerable, inviting you to contemplate the mysteries of the inner life. Stieglitz’s portraits of O’Keeffe are reminiscent of Edward Steichen’s portraiture, with both artists exploring the possibilities of photography as a medium for capturing the essence of their subjects. Like any good artwork, this image remains open to interpretation, inviting us to bring our own perspectives and experiences to the act of seeing.