Coney Island, New York 1954

Ann Treer's photograph, Coney Island, New York, captures a candid moment with the sensitivity and precision afforded by black and white film. The composition has a casual, almost snapshot quality, yet it's full of life. The tonal range is beautiful, from the deep blacks of the women's hair to the soft greys of their clothing, with bright highlights on the skin and details. The texture is rich, especially in the hair and the fabric of their clothes, giving the image a tactile quality, even though it's flat. Look at the details in the woman's hair at the front, it feels almost sculptural. This relates to the image as a whole by grounding the image in detail. There's a quiet energy in this image, maybe this can be compared to the work of Diane Arbus, who also captured the life and energy of New York in the same period. The image invites us to consider the complexities of everyday life, capturing moments of joy and humanity amidst the urban landscape. It reminds us that art is not just about grand statements, but also about the beauty of the ordinary.