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A really nicely produced publication that comes with a booklet containing an essay by Matthew Specktor and a transcription of an interview between James Welling and Stephen Hilger. The book is comprised of two-page spreads of individual photographs that were taken in the alleys and alleyways of Los Angeles. The photographs have a kind of random feel in both their subject matter and style of framing and the book itself feels like an anthropological survey with the photographs providing the slightly dour documentary evidence.
In the booklet's interview with Hilger he reveals something of the unanticipated manner in which this project had its beginnings and how it evolved.
"I made photographs in the alleys only after photographing in my aging grandmother’s house for many years. I created a portrait of her through the subtle changes visible in the rooms of her house and garden. When she passed away, I lost the motivation to photograph inside her home. So I went out the back gate and found myself in the alley. I started walking up and down alleys, photographing as an act of mourning. It took me some time to realize that in doing this I was looking at something more systemic and sociological—controlled spaces designed for the security and maintenance of the wealthy."
46 single-sided pages, individually 6.75" x 9.5", and when unfolded 36ft 5"
pocket with essay and interview on left, and front page of work
back cover
