5 questions

Aaron Siskind:

Siskind was born in 1903, in New York City. Originally an English teacher, he became increasingly interested in photography after his wife bought him a camera as a honeymoon present. He became a part of the New York Photo league in the early 30s and moved on to further pioneer the field of abstract/symbolic photography. Siskind was an educator all his life, teaching photography in various schools around the country after his career as an English teacher. He died in Providence, Rhode Island, 1991, at the age of 87.

1. Describe literally what is in the photographs.

The photograph is framed around a hardened glove, fallen on a wooden surface; a deck, perhaps.

2. Use the photo principles + elements/compositional vocabulary that are strong/evident in the photo.

The photo is framed so that the glove lies in the center of the picture, creating  a very balanced photo. 

3. What is the meaning behind the photo? Why did the photographer take the picture? What is the photographers purpose?

The index finger of the glove is pointing out towards the left of the frame. Given the somewhat striking and poignant nature of the photo, this could be symbolic of hope— The glove seems to be pointing to where the worker went after the day, or even his life in work was over, suggesting the procession of life.

Share your personal opinions, thoughts, associations, inspirations and connections to the photographs.

I enjoy the sparseness of these two photos, as they allow you to focus on a single subject... To be continued.