Blog Archives
in-person retail fades away (goodbye, sears)
The Sears store in my local mall has been torn down. It’s been vacant for four years.
In the last few weeks the store was open I went up there almost every day to photograph the way a former retail giant looked as it died. At first I was worried that employees might challenge me and/or ask me to leave. But as it turns out, employees who only have that job for another paycheck or two don’t really care all that much.
And so, here are a couple of versions about what the death of Sears looked like.
Lubbock, Texas
photographed 12.26.2018 and 1.3.2019
ahead 150 ft
When I was in architecture school, I learned that it was important that buildings had a “sense of entry” – an obvious, easily recognized entrance so visitors are not left to wonder where they are supposed to go; it also serves as a way to define people’s impression of the building and their orientation to it. There are cultural elements to consider. There are psychological elements that make a difference. The way the building faces matters. The weather is important. How people with disabilities find their way is a critical consideration. The time of day, the numbers of people who will arrive at one time, the aesthetics of the building and its immediate environment, the building materials and colors all play a part in setting the sense of entry.
Failing that, of course, a sign painted on a hunk of wood and then stuck on a wall will suffice.
Two Harbors, Minnesota
photographed 9.23.2019
tulsa’s best
Well, obviously that sign wouldn’t say the burgers and malts here are Tulsa’s best unless that was a verifiable fact.
I have not had a malt here, but the burger I had for lunch the other day was the best burger I had that day. I can’t decide if that really helps bolster the sign’s claim, but I stand by my assessment.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
photographed 4.9.2023
indian joe
The name of the place seems a little cringey.
But look at the way the sunlight reflects off the broken windshield.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
photographed 4.9.2023
patriot games
A giant flag dominated the sky (but not this photo, particularly) while a regular-size one fluttered over the intersection of 2nd and Ash.
It sort of seemed like a battle of the flags. I’ll let you decide the winner.
Wellston, Oklahoma
photographed 4.29.2023
One Day | One Image 