Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Visceral Response

Underneath London lies a vast network of sewers, drains and lost rivers that have long been channeled underground.
A constantly active system that everyone in the capital uses yet hardly anyone gives a thought to, it lies waiting for those who seek its secrets.
London, 2013.
__________________________________________________________________________

I am fascinated by the old world architecture that lies beneath the streets of the biggest cities. These underground rivers and roads rarely see light, and when they do they dazzle.

The craftsmanship that allows these shapes to exist and maintain their forms is astounding, especially considering their age. The lines and curves, arcs, arches, spirals, et cetera all stem from the simple rectangles of the bricks.

When light is introduced to these underworlds, the interplay between light and shadow creates such amazing effects. I'm certain that the feeling of being there is truly creepy and claustrophobia inducing, yet the photos and videos I have seen make me wish to explore.

In this particular photo, I am inundated with feelings. I feel a mix between dread from the mysterious man silhouetted by the light of the tunnel, and a desire to be the man brave enough to be down there. The contrast of the man's dark shape and the glare of his flashlight are very interesting fixtures in this image. The lines of the tunnels point the eye towards him and beyond, making the tunnel seem to go on indefinitely.





No comments:

Post a Comment