photographically capturing 19th century chicago architectural ornament can be hugely therapeutic

every once in a while i feel uninspired, saturated with mixed emotions that lead to exaggerated negativity and seemingly unstoppable rumination on being "stuck." this becomes hugely counter-productive within the world of urban remains, where at times i'm subject to mundane tasks that any business owner is familiar with, to some degree or another. instead of retreating into the depths of this darkness, i have created several panic buttons or "outlets" along the way to escape the gravitational pull of a self-defeating mentality.

as of late, my escape has been to abruptly put down the computer, leave the office, and drive into surrounding neighborhoods -- where i crawl along (annoying the hell out of other drivers) capturing images of ornament in as much detail as possible. in some way, it's like an easter egg hunt, but instead of wandering around the yard looking for brightly colored eggs tucked away, i seek out architectural ornament adorning one commercial block or residential facade or another. it's an unbelievably effortless action that showers me with joy and calm. i become so consumed with the thrill of discovery that whatever horrific mindset i had fades into the distance.

i haven't reached the point where i can escape every bad feeling, but exploring and documenting the little noticed details of my surroundings has become a surprisingly consistent strategy.

so i feel it's best to continue on with this "therapy" of photography that has no explicit aim. in a line of work which relies upon narrating my day to day, and assigning meaning to objects, it is somewhat of a departure for me to explore and photograph without an objective.

however, it is in this way that i avoid some of the self-induced pressures of the salvage business, while drawing comfort from the same well of enthusiasm for 19th century chicago architecture. in any case, my explorations have re-affirmed that capturing the "overlooked" can be a fruitful antidote for senseless negativity, and a way to re-frame the still living buildings in this ever-changing city.

additional pictures will continue to be added to the blog from both the existing database and future efforts as i devote more and more time traversing chicago's urban landscape looking to document or record 19th century ornament that captures my "mind's eye."