British photographer James Kerwin has unveiled a captivating new photography series titled "Time Suspended" that showcases the elegant yet deteriorating facades and interiors of Cuba's grand Caribbean architecture. The project emerged from Kerwin's four-week journey through Havana, Cienfuegos, and other Cuban locations, where he took time to immerse himself in his surroundings and revisit certain areas to capture them under different lighting conditions.
Currently based in Istanbul, a city also celebrated for its remarkable architecture, Kerwin brings a deep fascination for history and the built environment to his work. He is particularly drawn to documenting how time leaves its indelible mark on structures that have been left exposed to the elements for decades. His artistic focus centers predominantly on abandoned buildings, historic interiors, and spaces that communicate their stories through visible wear, distinctive textures, and the way natural light moves across their surfaces.
"My aim is to preserve the atmosphere of these places before they change, are restored, or disappear entirely," Kerwin explains about his photographic mission. The "Time Suspended" series specifically emphasizes Cuba's unique architectural landscape, featuring buildings that exist in a delicate balance between preservation and decay. According to Kerwin, each image in the collection reflects both the remarkable resilience of these structures and the passage of the various eras they have witnessed throughout their existence.
Looking ahead, Kerwin has announced plans to return to Cuba in February of the coming years, where he will co-lead specialized photography tours for other enthusiasts interested in capturing the island's architectural heritage. Those interested in learning more about his creative process can view behind-the-scenes content on YouTube, while additional works and updates are available on his official website and Instagram account.
For those fascinated by Cuban architecture through a photographic lens, Kerwin's contemporary work complements the historical documentation by photographer Andrew Moore, whose images captured Cuba at the turn of the 21st century. Together, these bodies of work provide a comprehensive visual timeline of the island's architectural evolution and preservation challenges spanning multiple decades.
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