Gloria Dauphin 1993

Nancy Andrews made this photograph, Gloria Dauphin, at some point in her career. It's printed in monochrome, which gives the scene this timeless, slightly melancholy feel. The composition is all about layers and details. Look at the table, cluttered with plates, cutlery, and a half-smoked cigarette. It’s like a still life within a portrait. The light streaming in from the window creates these stark contrasts, almost theatrical. The woman's gaze is directed out of frame, drawing you into the narrative, making you wonder what she’s thinking. I love the contrast between the realism of the scene and the kind of gritty poetry it evokes. It reminds me a bit of Nan Goldin's work, that same unflinching gaze, and commitment to capturing the beauty in the everyday. Art isn't about perfect answers, it's about asking questions, and creating a space for reflection.