The Essence of Black and White

The books Practices of Looking and Film Art: An Introduction each have their own notions on the values that define an image. Practices of Looking argues that the meaning and significance of a work of art lie in the audience’s interpretations rather than the work of art itself. The book considers all the factors that could potentially help generate an image’s meaning and talks of the concepts of interpellation, aesthetics and ideology. Film Art: An Introduction focuses more on the work of art itself. The book’s thesis reflects on the form and content that makes up an image. It talks of an overall system of relations that we receive from the content and form, and mentions the different connotations, meanings and emotions that they might invoke.

The photograph “Charleston, South Carolina,” is a black and white photo taken sometime in the ‘50s by Robert Frank. It features an image of an African American woman holding a Caucasian baby. The photo presents a very stark contrast between black and white, and centered the juxtaposition of the subjects to place further emphasis on it’s use of colors. From my understanding, Practices of Looking would most likely first deliberate on the emotional response and focus on the protective, caring and nurturing expressions that the photo is trying to captivate. It might also take into account the period in which the photo was taken and evaluate the social and cultural aspects that were present during that particular setting; one that encompasses racial tensions and power struggles.

Film Art: An Introduction would most likely interpret this image differently and focus more on the stylized presentation of the photograph. It might suggest that the aforementioned contrast in color is a symbol of unity and devotion. Since the photo itself is a black and white image, I believe that Film Art: An Introduction will center their interpretation on the color scheme itself. As much of the book talks of how works of art can inspire activities, the book might argue that the image deals with themes of maternal instincts, and how it aims to inspire the viewer with its affectionate and tender illustration.