Stockholm Metro. T-Centralen Station – All photos by David Altrath.
Photo Essay – The Swedish capital is mostly known for its picturesque views, efficiency and politeness of its citizens. But, maybe, not everyone knows that it just takes few steps underground to be mesmerized by sculptures, rock formations, mosaics, paintings and installations populating one of the most lively creative metros in the planet. Now captured by young German photographer David Altrath.
Solna Strand Station.
“I had often read about what is the Stockholm Metro – probably the longest art exhibition in the world -, where artists have been involved in building new stations and helping to decorate existing ones.” Explains Altrath.
Solna Centrum Station.
His Stockholm Metro project was born during a several week long trip from Hamburg to Sweden. “For two nights, I roamed the empty stations, which are otherwise way too crowded to capture all their beauty and atmosphere.”
Tensta Station.
“Most metro or subway stations in the world consist of grey concrete walls. This is an unpleasant environment for travellers and its monotonous architecture often seems depressing. But in Stockholm 94 of the 100 metro stations are decorated with art installations and perfectly and respectfully preserves by people as well.”
Kungsträdgården Station.
Each stop is characterised by an individual design concept, so all of them have high recognition factor, which helps with orientation underground. Seeing that each stop possess an individual, architectural and design identity allows for the tunnel tubes to appear as a seemingly coherent art exhibition.
Thorildsplan Station.
“Due to several conversations with locals, during the creation of the photo series, I got a sense of the local population‘s pride for their well-kept and beautiful metro.” Adds Altrath.
Huvudsta Station.
“In my work, always keeps an eye on a clear view of space, perspective and light. I always try to capture the present atmosphere of the subjects in the most natural way. My aim is to incorporate a stage-like narrative into my pictures, to speak for the objects special features.”
Mörby Centrum Station.
“From an early age I developed an interest in photography until it turned into a permanent companion during my youth. After graduating I have been working as a freelance photographer with a focus on landscape and architectural photography and as a pictorial editor.”
Tekniska Högskolan Station.
All photos by David Altrath – Instagram: @davidaltrath.
Tekniska Högskolan Station.
Citybanan – Odenplan Station.
Stadion Station.
