David Levinthal

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In the introduction to the first two books in the National Museum of American Art's "American Scene" series, the editor and curator express a desire to showcase the evolving portrait of America, moving beyond the myth of the "melting pot" to a more diverse social fabric. While this aspiration is evident, the works of Bernice Abbott and Robert Frank, as highlighted, offer insights into American life through a distinct lens that leans more towards photojournalism than traditional art. This approach encourages contemplation rather than sensationalism, though the constraints of the series format can overshadow individual artistic vision. Despite this, the books serve as valuable documents of contemporary middle America, presenting a mix of pleasant and disturbing realities. Pratt's focus on Midwest county fairs captures the traditions and people associated with them, while Arndt's photographs of mostly working-class men in decaying cities create a sense of unity among his subjects, making his work particularly compelling. Together, these multiple-image portraits provide public libraries with a poignant record of fading communities and their traditions.