most important photograph

Amanda and Her Cousin Amy by Mary Ellen Mark

I first came across this photograph in camp for a writing exercise of some sort, but I can't remember what it was. What I remember is this picture. I remember being completely stunned by it. The jarring juxtaposition of the cigarette and makeup with the inflatable kiddie pool and the innocence combined with the adult role the child has taken on, made me completely unable to look away. There is something captivating about their facial expressions, and I still find myself amazed by this shot. I suppose I like it so much because children grew up quickly where I lived as well. Just a couple of days ago, I ran across a bunch of kids in a park here who were so excited to play in the creek and pet the stray cat and meet interesting strangers. They were in sixth grade, and they were completely innocent. By sixth grade none of us were so sweet. I like this photograph because it makes me uncomfortable to look at it, to think about it, and I think art is meant to confront you like that.