Robert McNeill
New Car (South Richmond, Virginia), from the project The Negro in Virginia1938
gelatin silver print
10 x 8 in.
Smithsonian American Art Museum, Museum purchase
Who is the owner of this new car? No doubt it's the gentleman in the vest. His smile is broader and he caresses the vehicle with pride. This lighthearted scene of young men admiring a new car emphasized shared moments of rare success at a time when unemployment and economic distress were common for most.
