Michael-PietrocarloMichael Pietrocarlo is a photographer drawn to the mystery of spaces where longevity has defied significance: forlorn constructs ravaged by nature, time, and the boundaries of ruin. He discovers and appropriates these ‘found places’ in his images to expose the brutal beauty of their (inevitable) decay, exploring contrastive themes of transience/permanence, deterioration/renewal, and abandonment/reclamation.

Beneath the patina of corrosion hides the wonder of a forgotten past. Michael’s aim is to reveal – and revere – remnants of former purpose and historical importance. At one time these spaces were occupied by multitudes; now they occupy only the imagination.

He prefers to capture scenes faithfully and undisturbed, favoring a wide perspective using natural light. Large-scale prints convey vicarious presence within the distressed grandeur.

Above all, these acts of discovery and documentation help him confront his own struggles with mortality in an attempt to illustrate artistry in dereliction, hope in obsolescence, intimacy in emptiness.

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