My obsession with the Sixth Street Viaduct and its deconstruction apparently originates from many sources, impulses and desires. Unfulfilled dreams perhaps? It began soon after settling into the DTLA loft in September 2015. Every photographer, and every painter for that matter, needs a subject, a starting point, a conceptual premise in which they can immerse themselves. I found mine as the days of exploring and shooting the bridge turned into weeks, then months, then a year. My initial infatuation with the viaduct expanded exponentially as I spent more and more time looking at it and shooting it. The more time I spent in Los Angeles the more I realized the considerable impact of the bridge, its demolition and its future.
I’d been aware of the iconic nature of the Sixth Street Viaduct since studying at Otis Art Institute years ago. Who in LA wasn’t aware of it? Moving into an area so close to the bridge and learning of its imminent demise somehow heightened its presence. Even though I couldn’t see it from the loft, it loomed weighty and melancholic. I knew its days were numbered. I sensed it did too. The realization that this monumental architectural “celebrity” would be demolished was staggering to me. I imagined the ambitious complications and engineering wizardry in its tearing down would equal its construction. It fascinated me. How would it be accomplished? And, in only a year?
Artists can start a project with one thing in mind. Perhaps on a whim or instinct, which sows the seed of a concept. As I delved deeper into the Sixth Street Viaduct and its history, its current state, anticipated demolition and rebirth my intentions evolved and grew more complex. As I persevered, the project shifted, altered and became clearer. I was swept into its labyrinth.
All images shot with a Canon 5D Mark III. All words and images are copyright © 2015, 2016, or 2017 Lawrence Fodor and may not be reproduced of copied without the written consent of the artist. Archival inkjet or lightjet prints are available in editions of 3 - each size: 17 x 22 inches, 24 x 36 inches and 40 x 60 inches. Please contact the studio for more information.