Adam Magyar’s ‘Stainless’ series tracks activity in one of Berlin’s Alexanderplatz metro stops. His use of a high-speed camera allowed him to slow down that very activity, moving in a sloth-like manner between each shot.
Magyar’s project grapples with the subjects of transiency and alienation. He points to the fleeting and impersonal nature of public transit as passengers remain temporary acquaintances at best. And while these notions of estrangement are central to debates on contemporary social interactions, the two minute short nonetheless captivates viewers with its haunting beauty, showcasing an almost stagnant view of women and men amid their daily routines. The result is anything but banal despite the backpacks, cell phones, shopping bags and suitcases.
Slow-Moving Subway Shorts
Adam Magyar’s ‘Stainless’ Tracks Metro Activity
Trend Themes
1. Slow-moving Photography - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the use of high-speed cameras to capture captivating slow-motion footage in various industries such as sports, fashion, and advertising.
2. Exploration of Transiency - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop new ways to address and mitigate the feelings of estrangement and alienation in public spaces, such as transportation hubs, shopping centers, and airports.
3. Impersonal Social Interactions - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create technologies and platforms that facilitate meaningful connections and interactions in public settings to counteract the impersonal nature of modern social interactions.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate high-speed camera technology into photography equipment to capture unique and attention-grabbing slow-motion shots for various purposes, including artistic photography and product promotion.
2. Transportation - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Implement design changes and technological advancements in public transportation systems to improve the overall passenger experience and create a sense of familiarity and community during transit.
3. Social Networking - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop social networking platforms or mobile applications that foster real-life connections and meaningful interactions among users based on their physical proximity and shared interests.