Edward Burtynsky Photographic Works: Exploring the Residual Landscape
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 11. 2.05
Toronto Photographer Edward Burtynsky takes photographs of our footprint on the planet: "Nature transformed through industry is a predominant theme in my work. I set course to intersect with a contemporary view of the great ages of man; from stone, to minerals, oil, transportation, silicon, and so on. To make these ideas visible I search for subjects that are rich in detail and scale yet open in their meaning. Recycling yards, mine tailings, quarries and refineries are all places that are outside of our normal experience, yet we partake of their output on a daily basis."
Burtynsky started documenting the Three Gorges Dam Project in 2002, and has just released a book documenting Chinese industrialization. The photographs "offer a privileged glimpse into the vast social and economic transformations currently underway in China." and it isn't always pretty. Edward Burtynsky: China will be available this fall (it is available now in Canada) but you can view much of the collection on his website at ::Edwardburtynsky.com Put this book on your wish list this holiday, it looks like a must-have. thanks, matt galloway!
Mmmm. Hellish.
Indeed. And brilliantly photographed. Thanks for pointing out Burtynsky.