Old and New
"Old and New" is a pictorial
depiction of the changes modernity has wrought on the Airthrey Castle grounds.
In each photo there is something modern to complement the constant, Airthrey
Castle.
Modernist photographer's Rodchenko (1891-1956),
Moholy-Nagy (1895-1946), and Renger-Patzsch (1897-1966) influenced this work through
their focus' on the new, modern, industrial world. Although their work focused
solely upon the modern world, this work blends the old and new, which can be
found all over Scotland. This juxtaposition of modern and ancient is critical
because as Scotland moves forward into the future, it must not forget its past.
In this series, the interactions between
relatively modern objects with this several hundred year old castle are noted,
exemplifying the place that both the modern and historic have in Scotland
today. The focus on the different parts of the castle throughout the
photographs provides unification to the series as the different aspects of
modernity which impact it are explored.
The interesting angles and orientations
displayed in this series offers a view which, for the average adult, would be
difficult to obtain, providing a new perspective on the importance which small,
modern aspects play in everyday life. The different angles and framing
found throughout the photos is also used to highlight the changes to the castle
in modern times.
This piece of work offers a new spin of
the modernist embrace of the new, industrial society through its contrast with
the past. While society and architecture will undoubtedly move forward, it is
also important to remember the shared past which has shaped Scotland and
continues to influence its people.
