Red Coat, 5th Avenue, New York City by Joel Meyerowitz (1975)

The photograph titled “Red Coat, 5th Avenue, New York City,” was captured by the artist Joel Meyerowitz in 1975. In this bustling street scene, the image showcases life on 5th Avenue in New York City, characterized by a mixture of pedestrians engaged in their daily activities.

The photograph captures a moment of urban life with striking color contrasts and a sense of immediate experience. A woman in a vivid red coat occupies the foreground, seemingly in mid-motion, which draws the viewers’ attention. She exhibits a casual yet expressive demeanor, as she appears engaged in either a conversation or contemplation. Her presence stands out against the cooler hues that dominate the rest of the frame, underlying the artist’s eye for color and composition.

In the background, various individuals are absorbed in their routines. A man to the right seems to be mid-sentence, holding a newspaper and gesturing as though he is in conversation or making a point, while another person is facing away, interacting with someone not fully visible in the frame. These individuals, along with others scattered across the scene, contribute to the dynamic and somewhat fragmented narrative, suggesting the myriad stories unfolding on 5th Avenue.

The architecture in the photograph adds to the urban feel, with the building’s geometric patterns of light and shadow providing a textured backdrop that speaks of the city’s character. The lighting in the image captures the interplay of sunlight and shadow, creating a vibrant ambiance that further enhances the depth and mood of the photograph.

Overall, Joel Meyerowitz’s “Red Coat, 5th Avenue, New York City” is a vibrant depiction of a moment in time that conveys the rhythm and pulse of city life in the 1970s.

Other Photographs from Joel Meyerowitz

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