EFIAP and a new approach to architecture

I received a new accreditation from FIAP (Federation Internationale of Art of Photography). I’m now an EFIAP (the E stands for excellence). This recognises that I’ve had a significant number of works accepted by international FIAP accredited exhibitions. The application to FIAP was quite a complex process and I’m indebted to Libby Smith, the Scottish FIAP accreditation officer, for her forensic eye and helpful approach. 

The second bit of news is that I have started to pursue a different genre of architecture photography. Through a series of unlikely coincidences I began to develop an interest in abandoned properties. Depending on their state of decay these properties are described in different terms: ‘liminal spaces’ describes buildings on the threshold of one purpose and another; ‘meanwhile use’ is the temporary alternative use of a building awaiting restoration, and ‘derelict’ describes a building that is so far into its collapse that it is beyond rescue. 

So why photograph them? For me there are two main reasons. Whatever condition an abandoned building is in, that state is temporary. It won’t look like that for long. I want to capture that momentary period before it’s lost forever. The second reason might not resonate with everyone. I think that there is charm to be found in these abandoned structures. 

Here are a few examples all taken in the last few months. I plan to have an exhibition in Dumfries next year for charity. If you happen to know of any abandoned, but accessible properties, do let me know.