Detroit and Michigan

I sometimes feel that landscape photographers think they are compelled to travel to distant and exotic locations to obtain material with impact. At one point in my life, I too, ventured to many places in the world because I felt that my everyday surroundings were mundane and lacking in film worthiness. However; with age I realized that most great landscape and street photographers made their mark by capturing where they lived and what they knew best. The passage of time constantly brings a renewed quest for local images and potential fine art purchasers are more apt to seek a print that is memorable or nostalgic to them rather than an image that is powerful but they cannot relate to.
Thus; I have been digging out all of my old prints from over the years. This month I am exhibiting a few of my black and white prints pertaining to " Detroit and Michigan " and the next blog will be color photographs on the same theme. I am constantly amazed at how a print that is originally considered lack-luster can become a treasure some thirty years later.
DETROIT and MICHIGAN have been a large part of my life for many years and I have many memories ---- both good and not so good, but it has been home and a very good one. I am old enough to remember when Detroit was the fourth largest city in the United States but now is somewhere around number thirteen and fading. It is so sad for the city of cars to be ravaged, in recent times, by blight, decay and political corruption. Hopefully; it can return soon to gain the respect and population it once held.
The State of Michigan is an awesome place for anyone who enjoys landscape photography and the out of doors. The ongoing recession has crimped it's style temporarily but it will endure and thrive again.
I hope you enjoy viewing my black and white prints ---- please return to my blog next month for many different color images of the city and the state.  
                                                                       Thank you,    Keith Vanstone