TRANSIENT ART
While visiting Chiang Mai, Thailand, I spotted a abandoned shell of an apartment complex project a block from my hotel. I am fascinated by abandoned spaces, and striking graffiti made the partially fenced off space irresistible.
When I nervously ventured into the abandoned project - half expecting to stumble onto one or more squatter-artists, who might not welcome my presence - I found a treasure of spectacular street art. After swallowing my fears (and listening from outside for signs of life) I spent a couple of hours trying to capture all of the interesting graffiti images and angles.
As I was framing the last few shots, a crew of men arrived with brooms and shovels in hand. As I cleared out, they began cleaning debris from the empty shell. I presume that a developer was restarting the project, which had clearly been stalled for more than a year.
If my guess is right, all of this wonderful street art is now covered with fresh paint or siding, never to be seen again. I hope these images allow the artists' visions to live on.
NOTE: If anyone recognizes the 'signatures' on any of these works, please contact me through this site. I will gladly attribute the work to the verified artist, if possible.