Guggenheim 662--Sacramento, California 1956

Robert Frank created “Guggenheim 662--Sacramento, California,” a black and white photograph, sometime during his prolific career. Frank, a Swiss immigrant, became known for his raw and unfiltered portrayal of American life, often focusing on those at the margins of society. This contact sheet, marked with red grease pencil, offers a behind-the-scenes look at his photographic process. The images, capturing scenes from a bus depot to roadside diners, reflect Frank's interest in the everyday experiences of working-class Americans, especially the impact of car culture on their lives. The mundane is made poetic, highlighting the loneliness and alienation that can exist even in crowded spaces. As Frank once said, “You’ve got to be yourself and not be afraid to be simple.” His images resonate with a deep sense of empathy, inviting us to reflect on the complex realities of American identity and the human condition. We are left to wonder whose stories go unseen, and how Frank’s work gave them a place in the cultural landscape.