Jon Gould 1980 - 1985

This is a photograph of Jon Gould by Andy Warhol. It’s a grainy, black and white image, capturing a moment on what looks like a windswept beach. Warhol, known for his screen prints, also had a keen eye for photography, and this piece feels like a candid snapshot, a brief exchange between artist and subject. The texture of the sand, the stark contrast, it all adds to a very particular atmosphere. Look how the shadow falls behind Gould, creating an interesting set of shapes, repeating the legs above and below. The picture reminds me of some of the work by Robert Mapplethorpe in its approach to composition, and its exploration of themes around masculinity. It feels very human and immediate. The beauty of art lies in its ability to evoke multiple meanings and feelings, so what do you see?