April 19 – May 31, 2024
This online exhibition brings together photographs by Arthur Griffin that capture moments from everyday life in Boston. Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Arthur Griffin became a photographer for Boston Globe and the New England photojournalist for Life and Time magazines in the 1930s. Through his lens, Griffin turns simple moments of everyday life into lasting memories.
© Griffin Museum of Photography
Griffin captured views of the Boston Harbor. The architecture of Boston rises in the background while people in the boats are foregrounded. The photograph on the right shows taking a boat tour and enjoying the view of the Boston Harbor was a popular activity back then as much as it is now.
© Griffin Museum of Photography
These photographs capture people engaging in various activities in the city with glimpses of Boston’s streets and old storefronts. The image in the middle captures Paul Revere’s House and visitors around it. The photograph on the right captures the Paul Revere Statue while a group of children are walking past it; the Old North Church is visible in the background. In these compositions, Griffin presents the historic locations as a part of a living city.
© Griffin Museum of Photography
Charles River is another location where Griffin took photographs. He captures groups of people canoeing and enjoying summertime surrounded by blooming trees of Charles River and away from the bustle of the city.
© Griffin Museum of Photography
These two photographs capture the Museum of Fine Arts from afar, while people in the foreground are spending time with friends and family. On the left is a group of children fishing in a pond and on the right are a families having a picnic. The landscape around the museum becomes a peaceful setting for these people to enjoy a day out. The monumental, classical architecture of the museum exemplifies the wide range of buildings present in Boston.
© Griffin Museum of Photography
These photographs were taken at Theater District. On the left is captured a large crowd on a busy street. In contrast to the peaceful views of the city, these provide a glimpse into Boston’s busy downtown and evening crowds. The bright signs create a dazzling, vibrant view, a symbol of life in a bustling city.
To view Arthur Griffin’s photographs visit Arthur Griffin Photo Archive.
Written and Curated by Deniz Bora – Curatorial Intern, Spring 2024
