Researching photographers who have working in a similar capacity to myself I came across Paul Talling’s project “Derelict London” a project now in its 18th year. I was first introduced to the project a little over a year ago when picking up a copy of the 2008 Randon House edition of the Derelict London photo book. The book is laid out in a simplistic form with images selected by chapter, with titles such as Houses & Flats, Pubs & Cafes etc. Talling pairs images with informative text that has both a historical aspect and social commentary relating to the images position within the book. As Tallng describes his journey started back in 2003:
“My fascination with derelict London buildings dates back to an early spring morning in 2003 when I noticed that an abandoned candle factory in Wandsworth was finally succumbing to the wrecker’s ball. There was something quite poignant about seeing this once vibrant building finally biting the dust, and it prompted me to keep a casual eye out for other buildings tottering on the edge of extinction.” [Taller 6:2008]
What is apparent in this book is Taller’s interest and passion for these buildings, what they mean to the people who live and work around them. Photographing hundreds of buildings, the book only shows a portion of Taller’s work to date. However, the obsession with derelict London has continued both via social media and online but also in new edition to the 2008 book and now a catalogue of around 8000 images. Taller’s passion/obsession is clearly a shared one with over 14,000 followers on Facebook alone.
It is useful to see the way in which Taller has put together this book as, with my own practice, I can see how a similar layout would work with combining my research text with the images I have made. I feel this will aid the viewer in fully grasping what I have set out to achieve.
Reference
Taller, P “Derelict London” 2008 Random House Books
https://www.derelictlondon.com/ [Accessed 07/08/2021]
The Space Between 