The comments about this image reflect so much about what I felt as I captured it. (Although I must admit to perplexity about the idea of optimism.) m, thank you for alerting me to the work of Salgado. I agree with you I think that color would amplify what he is trying to evoke.
Only in sunny California....this wild burst of color....and optimism!!!
Guest
28-Nov-2003 10:02
Yes, I agree with Phil, regarding colour. Something I've thought about the last time I went to see a Salgado exhibition: B&W, whilst 'harmonising' reality, and making ordinary things appear 'more arty', I feel often distances us from objective reality. I know a lot of people disagree with that statement, but when I look at Salgado images I can't help but wonder whether we would feel closer and more sympathetic to the people portrayed if we saw them in colour. In B&W they seem to be placed 'in another era', making it easier for us to dismiss them, simply for being 'backward' somehow. This is why I insist on 'Streetwise' being in colour -- it is merciless in forcing us to accept the truth.
It's interesting that the colors are so pleasing for an image that is all about such a displeasing problem in our communities. I see it as portraying homelessness as a very matter-of-fact life to this unfortunate person.
If this photo was in black and white, you would have given us a grim comment on urban decay. But color lifts this image into another realm of social comment altogether. The brilliant colors and patterns celebrate mankind, while at the same moment, the foot of the homeless person represents a darker view of human existence. Spectacular incongruity makes this a strong, story-telling photograph.
