When: through January 28, 2018
This is a small show, only two rooms. It's well sized for a lunchtime outing, and is interesting as well. It's a tribute to Robert Menschel, who pledged both money and photographs to start and expand the National Gallery's collection.
Spanning a wide time period, from the 1840s through the 1990s, one is struck by the fact that humans have been smiling for the camera for about 170 years. Compared to painting or sculpture, it's a new art form, but it's been around for a while now.
The photograph that stood out to me the most was one by Robert Frank called "San Francisco." It's part of his Americans series, and it depicts an African-American man and woman sitting on a grassy hillside looking down at the city. Becoming aware of Frank's presence, they are turned to the camera, looking wary and ready to rise. The viewer is uncertain: are they afraid, are they hostile? Clearly, there is some discomfort there.
Verdict: A fine tribute to a generous benefactor.
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