Juxtapositions Tell the Story of Our Town
What a city of contradictions is Austin. Old butts up against the new, old is lamented when exchanged for new. The town’s a shiny magnet for newcomers, despite the fact that its quirky attractions are carelessly surplanted by faceless reflective towers that reflect back . . . what? Increasing anonyminity.
“Creativity is that marvelous capacity to grasp mutually distinct realities and draw a spark from their juxtaposition.”
― Max Ernst
These juxtapositions are a photographer’s dream. An image of Austin’s transformation can show more at a glance than can be told in hundreds of words. But these photographs deserve more than a glance (and not merely because I’m the photographer). Take a careful look, because this is a visual record of how Austin is progressing (or regressing, take your pick).
For better or worse, this is us. ♦
Looming by Jann Alexander © 2010
Motor to Don-Mar by Jann Alexander © 2013
Frog Legs and Towers by Jann Alexander © 2013
Overtaken by Jann Alexander © 2004
Booted Out by Jann Alexander © 2013
Those Halcyon Days by Jann Alexander © 2014
Hut’s Rises Above by Jann Alexander ©2013
Competition by Jann Alexander © 2013
Tiny Bar, Big Crane by Jann Alexander © 2010
A Hole in the Heart of Texas by Jann Alexander © 2013
Custard v Condo by Jann Alexander © 2013
Mean Cat Meets Condo by Jann Alexander © 2010
Which Vanishing Austin landmark do you miss most?
- How the Vanishing Austin project began
- The 99+ photographs in the Vanishing Austin series
- More articles in Vanishing Austin blog series
- The Endangered Species of Austin
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I was wondering if Katz’s Deli is still there?
Gone, but not due to development–Katz went bankrupt.
Oh my, I remember back in the 80’s going there late night early morning after over-indulging on 6th street.
Austin’s a changing city, that’s for sure! If you’re feeling homesick for Austin, check out http://VanishingAustin.com/ and thanks for commenting! Glad you found my blog.