Shooting the Solitude
September 10, 2009
I have always been drawn to the solitary, and those places characterized by solitude. In photography, I am drawn to derelict buildings, abandoned venues. To empty spaces once filled with life. In New York, I documented the meat packing district, long after the livestock had left. In New Jersey, I documented Asbury Park, long after it’s heyday and before the massive renovations. In Ohio there are derelict buildings, yes. But there is also perhaps a sense of personal loss about the places that no longer exist, or the places that have become run down, because I grew up here. Because most of the family who lived here are no longer living at all.
The Road Away
One thing I’ve always loved about Ohio is the number of barns along the roads. This one, along the 3-C highway, I have had my eye on for quite awhile. I want to go out and shoot it on b&w film, but I finally stopped by one day and took a few test shots. It is not just the barn, but the whole area around it that seems filled with regret. And still, the holiness of empty spaces is all I seem to know.
Derelict Barn
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Great image here! I also lived in Ohio when I was growing up. We lived in my grandmothers old Farmhouse with a huge field in the back and thirteen acres of woods to play in. Such fond memories but now that same field and woods are no more than cookie cutter houses and concrete. Such a shame. Reminds me of that old Pretenders song My city was gone.
Thank you, Bryan! Your work is beautiful. Which of the 3 C’s did you live closest to? It is sad that so much of Ohio’s farm land has become housing developments or shopping centers…