thoughts/feelings

These images are evidence that ethereal beauty exists above, below, and in between our cities. Whether in the sickening depths of sanitary sewers or suspended among the grit of tower cranes the frames worth capturing are limitless. Does my portfolio offer something more than this simple truth? It doesn’t have to — it brings me immense satisfaction just knowing that from time to time, someone will stumble across these photos and be stirred by that same sense of wonder that I felt the first time I saw dramatic images taken from illicit places.

With that being said, for over a decade I’ve wondered how urban exploration — and the intrinsic drive to document and dramatize it through photography — might be meaningful in a deeper sense. Perhaps it lies in how the practice dismantles the often binary conversation around legality versus morality. Or maybe it’s in how this activity reveals layers of history buried beneath our streets or hidden in forgotten attics. Did those fleeting moments of nirvana atop a thousand-foot jib teach me something about life, love, and happiness?

How could they not?

who/how

Now in my mid-twenties, my pursuit of urban exploration began the summer after seventh grade. What started as a sketchy climb onto the roof of our local elementary school gradually evolved into exploring other school roofs, derelict properties, and eventually skyscrapers. Skills were honed, techniques were learned, and friendships — both at home and abroad — were forged.

While it goes without saying that not every infiltration is squeaky clean, in almost every instance these remarkable spots are accessed using patience, by being bold, and manifesting a lot of dumb luck. Lower Bay Station, for instance, was achieved in the midst of a routine afternoon running some errands; while heading home, I noticed that the doors leading down from the active station platform were ever so slightly ajar. After biding my time for a few minutes, I quickly flicked it open when the coast was relatively clear, darted down the stairs, took some photos, and prayed for a clean getaway. Such are the makings of a classic mission!

purchasing art/getting in touch

If you are interested in buying a print please do not hesitate to reach out. You can get in touch using my email sxifty@gmail.com. Over the years, I've processed dozens of orders for various clients. Produced by a company located here in Toronto, the finished product is of high enough quality to be the centerpiece of any cherished space.

Additionally, clients have previously commissioned me to create portraits of particular buildings or areas that hold historical or sentimental value. If that's something of interest, feel free to drop me a note!

Lastly, if your curiosity is academic or collaborative in nature, I'd be thrilled to connect. In the coming years, I'll be attending grad school, aiming to find intersections between urban exploration, photography, and the study of public policy and urban planning. If this aligns with your work or interests, please don't hesitate to reach out.