Since the end of the 1980s, the Polish mining region of Upper Silesia has undergone a period of profound transformation. The heritage, especially of pre-World War Two industrial architecture, is gradually disappearing or is being converted for other uses. Many factories have been shut down or demolished, while other facilities dating from the early years of industrialization are still in operation.
In this exhibition, Thomas Voßbeck’s photographs portray the aesthetic of Upper Siliesia’s industrial complexes in a new, artistic light. Through composition and by skillfully capturing the effects and angles of light, Voßbeck creates impressive scenes in which the imposing halls and machinery take center stage.
The photographs were taken between 2009 and 2010 and depict industrial complexes that were built before 1945 and have been preserved in various forms. The pictures reflect the cultural heritage of this region of Europe.
An accompanying volume in German and Polish is available for the exhibition: 200 pages, 116 color illustrations, bound, hardcover, ISBN 978-3-936168-57-0
