With beautiful colour palette of Portra 400 35mm film. I present to you Chicago, the heart of the midwest. A city with a rich history, with breathtaking modern architecture as well as keeping the old Americana style in the streets. The urban landscape of this beautiful city is what gave the inspiration to create this photography project. I have had the pleasure of rediscovering the city over a course of a few months during my final year at University. With just a film camera over my neck and free time on my hands, I explored the city through its seasons. Capturing all its colours and angles, neighbourhoods and its community members. Investigating the North, South West and North West sides of the city. These aren’t your typical city centre pictures or what we chicagoans identify as the “The Loop”. These are images that explore the outer edges of the city. To shed light on areas of the city that I call my home.
Up until now I have felt that I have misunderstood this city, it wasn’t until I left when I discovered its uniqueness in the world. Its impact that it had on American culture. It was the location of many 1980's high school romantic comedies. Jazz and Blues music had created a voice for people and changed music history. People say “Oh you’re from Chicago? Michael Jordan and Pizza?” It made me realise that my city was misrepresented, or just narrowly viewed. I hope those who pick up this book not only get a sense of the colourful and vibrant nature of this city, but also receive an honest perspective of it. But can contextualise its own unique American landscape.
