URBAN EXPLORATION - from wikipedia - Urban exploration, urbex or UE, is the examination of the normally unseen or off-limits parts of human civilization. Urban exploration is also commonly referred to as infiltration, although some people consider infiltration to be more closely associated with the exploration of active or inhabited sites.

I've always been drawn to history, perhaps it stems from my childhood in PA. I grew up very near many famous battlefields of the French and Indian war and the Cival War. Also coming comimg from the Pittsburgh area, I was often WOWED by the sheer mass of Steel Mills, and Industry along the rivers.

I have photographed several sites like this over the years and I never tire of finding a new way to see the EXTRAORDINARY beauty in places, objects and moments that most people pass by without a second glance.

My tiny disclaimer about this new "hobby" called Urban Exploration. Abandoned buildings can be very dangerous; darkness, animals, structure damage, asbestos, lead paint, tetanus, toxic molds and other people. Some of the places I've explored are private property and are patrolled by private security or police, who may be armed and could arrest you if you are caught trespassing.

So WHY do this? Well, there is so much history all around us. Some of these places have architectural details that astonish and amaze me The craftsmanship used to construct these buildings is not even considered in today's modern buildings. They are REALLY COOL LOOKING! And so far outside my "comfort" zone as a people photographer that I felt the risks would be worth it.

These images were taken during 2 trips to an abandoned hospital complex in Southwest PA. I spent about an hour on the grounds and did not go alone either time. There was severe damage to the walls, lots of moisture and lots of crumbling "crap" on the floor.

I took my brother, Patrick (he's an EMT and also does search and rescue basically the sort of guy that IF something happens, he's really handy to have around!) with me on the second trip when I ventured into the BASEMENT with a tripod, a mag light and no idea what we were going to find. When Patrick got in there, he strongly suggested that I not TOUCH anything, NOT stir up too much dust as we walked and once we were down in the DARK, DAMP basement for about 1/2 hour, he really wanted us to leave. He pointed out asbestos crumbling from the walls, that got me really nervous! So out we went!