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Derek Swalwell is drawn to bold architecture, and has spent a lifetime capturing some of the most amazing architectural buildings across the globe. His latest personal project is a documentation of Italian architecture, specifically, famed structures by architects Carlo Scarpa, Aldo Rossi and Carlo Aymonino.
This body of work forms ‘Outdistance‘, an epic exhibition which opens in Collingwood this Thursday! We recently caught up with the man behind the lens.
Can you tell me a little about the trip to Italy where you shot ‘Outdistance’?
Outdistance is my study of some of these important Italian structures. Specifically, from three of Italy’s Design masters – Carlo Scarpa, Aldo Rossi and Carlo Aymonino – and the impact they had on the architectural thinking. They revolutionised the way we see modern work, brutalism particularly. This series aims to detail the legacy of those achievements. These pictures are hyper detailed, large format graphic impressions of modern post-war Italian design and the contact with it’s surrounds.
What is it about these particular locations that captured your attention, and what is their significance?
The detail and the silence of the structures, as well as the context, and pure freedom of expression that comes out of these works. At the time these commissions would have been breaking new ground for these regions of Italy, but ultimately influenced a generation of future building designers.
Your other most recent exhibitions were shot in Tokyo and LA – what is it about travel and the architecture of international cities that inspires you?
It’s really the opportunity. The insight into other histories and other ways of thinking that you don’t get to experience in your hometown. If you want to see Japanese design and that way of living, for example, you go there. Travelling, as a photographer, particularly if you’re one who is into architecture, design and other cities apart from your own, is a must.
What city’s architecture would you like to photograph that you haven’t had the chance to yet?
Sao Paolo!
Works from Outdistance are now available to purchase directly through Derek.
