TOKYO-2018 Architecture / Industrial

When Coal Left Town

  • Prize
    Bronze in Architecture/Industrial
  • Photographer
    Michael Schulz
  • Technical Info
    Limited Edition Silver Gelatin Prints In Either 11x14 In. (10+1) And 40x32 In. (3+1) Size.
  • Photo Date
    2018

The region in Germany known affectionately as "Ruhrpott", which includes cities such as Duisburg, Essen, Oberhausen, Dortmund, and Bochum, was a key part in Germany's industrialization as it was home to coal mining and steel production. 10 years after the shutdown of the last mine in Germany in 2008, I examine the past and current state of the region In this body of work now that coal mining is no longer an active industry and only steel production remains. This work surveys what has been left behind and how the landscape represents this history through still existing facilities.

Former editorial and commercial photographer with work published in the USA and Europe turned to fine-art work. Past clients include GQ, Men's Health, Golf Digest, Austin Monthly, and Bicycling Magazine. My current focus lies on the built environment and human altered landscape as well as the people living with and in it.