'Stories in Stone' is a photo series that captures the crumbling colonial architecture that dots the eastern Indian city of Kolkata (formerly 'Calcutta'). The series is the work of photographer Prabir Purkayastha.
From a distance, the buildings in Purkayastha's photos appear rather grand and imposing. Upon closer inspection -- through Purkayastha's sharp lens -- it becomes apparent that these once-grand buildings are beset by deterioration, with facades crumbling and overrun by overgrown roots and interiors gathering dust.
The series aims to document the city's remaining colonial architecture, a reminder of its colonial past as well as the diversity and thriving sub-communities it was once known for.
Stories in Stone is on display at the Sundaram Tagore Gallery in New York for the duration of the month of May.
Crumbling Colonial Architecture Photos
'Stories in Stone' Captures Colonial Architecture in India
Trend Themes
1. Crumbling Colonial Architecture - Opportunity for innovative restoration techniques and preservation methods for historical buildings.
2. Photography as Documentation - Potential to use photography as a tool to document and raise awareness about the decay of historical structures.
3. Colonial Heritage Preservation - Growing interest in preserving and celebrating colonial heritage, creating opportunities for cultural tourism and heritage-based businesses.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Construction - Opportunity for architectural firms to pioneer innovative restoration techniques for crumbling colonial buildings.
2. Photography and Visual Arts - Increasing demand for photographers and artists to capture and document decaying colonial architecture.
3. Tourism and Cultural Heritage - Rising interest in colonial heritage presents opportunities for tourism agencies, heritage hotels, and cultural preservation organizations.