Using reference: The 1950's 

In addition to my catalogue of research, I have studying the work of photographer Robert Frank. A Swiss American Photographer and documentary film maker, born in 1924. 

Here he captures London in the early1950's. 

What fascinates me is the beauty of the black and white stills, the mood of a foggy and weathered London. When I think of the 1950's I see a bright, colourful, pattered, clashing era. However here, Robert Frank's collection of stunning photographs show a calm, sophisticated and beautiful visual of London with clear class divides. 

Here a snapshot of class, a businessman in his sophisticated top hat and long coat, highlighting professional costume, contrasted against a labourer in torn and dirty work clothing, delivering what looks like a bag of coal. 

I especially love this photograph, this empty, wet London street could have been taken in any decade. The light of the street lamp can be seen reflecting on the wet pavement. It's timeless. 

I gentleman clutches a newspaper, walking stick in hand. I imagine he is on his way to work. A doubledecker bus is parked, collecting passengers, a cheap and frequent transport for those unable to afford cars. I imagine the businessman to be wealthy, a car owner. 

A hearse. A street cleaner in the background. Rows of terraced homes. A child runs down the street, free and unsupervised. 

Busy Londoners, on their way to work. Heavy fog fills the strreet. 

A stunning way to help with my  interpretation of  this era. Without colour, I can see this decade in it's rawest form, probably how Robert Frank intended.  I look forward to studying his work further.