Weathered arches in an abandoned mine building 4/5

by byRienk photography

Along a weathered wall, a succession of tall arched openings leads the eye towards a rear façade with a round window, through which the light air shines. The missing roof has left the building exposed to the elements. Rubble covers the ground and fragments of the old architecture are reflected in the puddles.

I took this photograph in the abandoned mining area of Mazarrón, Spain. My attention was drawn to the rhythm of the arches and the perspective along the long wall. The rough wall up close gives the impression that you yourself are peering round the corner and stepping into the space. Further on, the shapes become smaller and smaller and you discover ever-changing details.

Through the black-and-white processing, I emphasise the weathered plasterwork, the exposed stones and the contrast between the dark openings and the light sky. For me, the power of this place lies in the combination of decay and the architectural forms that remain recognisable.

This work forms part of my series ‘Monochrome echoes from the past’. The strong sense of depth and rich textures complement an industrial interior. In a calm, modern space, the photograph adds character and invites the viewer to come closer.