As one of the most elaborate transport systems in the world, the Moscow Metro is a glowing example of the successful union between architecture and artistic design. Stations along the length of the route are incredibly ornate, with mosaics and soaring arches reflective of their era of construction. Inspired by this elegant underground network, Russian photographer Vasily Kirsanov chose to capture its beauty from his own unique perspective. Instead of focusing on the structural elements around him, Kirsanov portrays what would happen if the lighting within the metro stations simply froze at the source, rather than illuminating their surroundings.
The results of his efforts are a series of eerie compositions presented in a project entitled Light of Moscow Underground (or Moscow Metrolight). The simplistic images are pleasing to the eye in their symmetry and balance. By focusing on this peculiar aspect of lighting, or lack thereof, the artist presents a novel way of looking at this historical subway system. All of Kirsanov's photos are taken using a Canon 450D with the standard settings of the camera with minimal post-processing in Lightroom.
Kirsanov's project is an illuminating example of the different lens with which we all view the world around us.
Vasily Kirsanov: Instagram | Behance
My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by Vasily Kirsanov.
