In his most recent work, Scottish photographer Alister Benn goes beyond the literal representation of architectural image making to create abstracts to articulate his feeling about the growth and future of Beijing.
With backgrounds in nature and landscape photography, he and his wife Juanli Sun spend as much time as possible in the wilderness of China, searching out the stunning wildlife and scenery. Beijing, by contrast is a growing metropolis of the 21st century, but Alister looks for the same feelings of serenity in the cities architecture.
Anyone who has ever lain on their back on the grass on a summer’s day, looking up at the clouds drifting by, has imagined shapes and images in the passing vapor. Some of these recent works are intended in the same way; to be lost in, reflected upon and to create a subtle ambiance. Others make deeper, more profound statements of the Earths environmental fragility and our responsibility to preserve it.
Beijing is an ancient city, with origins dating back more than 2000 years, it’s importance and significance has been maintained throughout the millennia and is the face of modern China. Alister has chosen the new buildings to be his inspiration, rather than focusing on the Hutong or buildings of antiquity. “We can learn from the past, but can shape the future.”
