Friday, May 14, 2010

End of an Aira

I know, you're thinking I can't spell. It's a reference to BC Place Stadium in Vancouver which, until last week sported the World's largest air supported roof. Over 10 acres of fiberglass reinforced fabric.

The roof was deflated last week and construction will now begin on a new retractable design. The Stay Puffed Marshmallow Roof no longer graces the Vancouver skyline.

So what? For people who make their living from photography in this city the implications are huge. Every photograph taken of our skyline since 1983 (27 years for the math-challenged) is now dated. Imagine the number of images that encompasses. Expo 86, Vancouver 2010. Millions, I safely assume. Few building projects have such a profound effect. One Wall Center, The Shangri-La Hotel, Science World, The Vancouver Trade and Convention Center. For professional Image Makers who rely on their stock images for income it means that they must re-shoot constantly to stay current as our city evolves.

When we see the city on a daily basis the changes evolve slowly. With some building projects taking several years to complete their significance is lost to the eye. It is only when we view photographs that the changes become punctuated. As I write this, I look across the room at an eight foot long shot of the Vancouver skyline taken six years ago and realize it's already dated. Looks like I've got more work to do!