Elevated

Suspended above the city streets of Chicago exists a magnificent steel structure known locally as the “L.” Carrying more than 160 million passengers a year, this elevated train line looks more like a gigantic erector set than a world class transportation system. When traveling elevated around the downtown Loop, one is weaving around buildings, sometimes getting within just feet of brick walls, office building windows, and other passing train lines. Like some surreal dance through the heart of the city and outwards to the countless Chicago neighbors, the “L” system embodies both a brilliant feat of engineering and of organization. My almost daily “L” rides are continually a rich visual experience that I never tire of; as a photographer, I am always looking, seeing, and rediscovering. This ongoing series entitled Elevated explores the relationship between Chicago's magnificent train system and the mindsets and behaviors of the riders using it. Through the use of personal devices, these riders have intentionally removed awareness, and therefore appreciation, of the immediate surroundings, attempting to elevate themselves beyond where they are and to somewhere else –somewhere nonexistent.

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