Meaning: The quote provided is from Ben Shahn, an American artist known for his works in social realism and his powerful portrayal of social and political issues. The quote seems to describe a personal experience of Shahn's, where he recounts a memory of traveling in Arkansas with Senator Robinson and sharing a "little trick" with him, which involved taking pictures of people without their knowledge.

Ben Shahn was known for his deep involvement in social and political causes, and his art often reflected his commitment to social justice and the human condition. Born in Lithuania in 1898, Shahn and his family immigrated to the United States in 1906, settling in New York City. His early experiences with poverty and discrimination deeply influenced his artistic and political views, leading him to create works that addressed issues such as labor rights, civil rights, and the impact of war on society.

In the context of the quote, Shahn's reference to traveling in Arkansas with Senator Robinson suggests a period when he may have been involved in documenting or observing social conditions in the state. Shahn's interest in capturing images of people "unbeknownst to them" may reflect his desire to portray authentic and unguarded moments that convey the realities of everyday life. This approach aligns with Shahn's broader artistic mission of shedding light on the experiences of ordinary people and advocating for social change.

The quote also hints at the collaborative nature of Shahn's work, as he mentions sharing his "little trick" with Senator Robinson, implying a sense of camaraderie and mutual engagement in the act of capturing these candid images. Shahn's ability to involve others in his artistic processes and to create a sense of shared participation speaks to his skill in building connections and fostering understanding through his work.

It's important to note that Shahn's approach to photography and art was deeply rooted in his belief in the power of images to convey truths and evoke empathy. By capturing moments without the subjects' awareness, Shahn may have aimed to reveal unguarded and unscripted aspects of their lives, seeking to present a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the human experience.

As an artist deeply committed to social and political causes, Shahn's use of photography as a tool for documentation and expression aligns with his broader body of work, which often confronted issues of inequality, labor rights, and the human impact of social and political systems. Through his art, Shahn sought to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and to provoke critical reflection on the state of society.

In conclusion, Ben Shahn's quote offers a glimpse into his approach to art and photography, highlighting his belief in the power of candid images to convey authentic human experiences. The quote also underscores the collaborative and participatory nature of Shahn's work, as well as his commitment to using art as a means of advocating for social change and raising awareness of important social issues.