The Survivors Project is a life-long effort to document small buildings across rural America that are still standing, intact and unaltered from their original state. I am drawn to these simple structures for their simplicity, functionality and sometimes their elegant design. Each one seems to have a personality. These buildings often seem regal to me. Am I the only one who sees them that way?
Driving across the Midwest in search of these architectural gems is therapeutic for me. When I've found a good one, I know it right away. The building stands alone, defiant against the ravages of the weather and time, and certainly untouched by progress. You have to wonder how the owners (if anyone still actually owns them) have resisted improving, altering or tearing down these buildings for so long.
When I find a "survivor", I like to stop and look for a very long time. I'll walk around it and admire it from every angle. Each structure seems to have a voice and a personality. I nearly always photograph them from a straight-on perspective, as a formal portrait session would be conducted. Rarely can I find out anything about these little buildings, because so often they were built for a utility-based purpose. They've been owned and used, and they've served their purpose. You would think there's not much to say about a shed or a garage or a general store...but just imagine if they could talk.
All images can be purchased securely on the web site, but if you see an image that you like but the print size (or type) is not shown, please email me. I want to make sure that everyone who loves my work can find a way to hang it on their wall.