“In 1997 I had what I refer to as my oil epiphany. It occurred to me that the vast, human-altered landscapes that I pursued and photographed for over 20 years were only made possible by the discovery of oil and the mechanical advantage of the internal combustion engine. It was then that I began the oil project. Over the next ten years I researched and photographed the largest oil fields I could find. I went on to make images of refineries, freeway interchanges, automobile plants and the scrap industry that results from the recycling of cars. Then I began to look at the culture of oil, the motor culture, where masses of people congregate around vehicles, with vehicle events as the main attraction. These images can be seen as notations by one artist contemplating the world as it is made possible through this vital energy resource and the cumulative effects of industrial evolution.” –Edward Burtynsky
**Explore the Vast and Complex World of Oil Through the Lens of Edward Burtynsky: A Groundbreaking Photographic Journey** Delve into the visually stunning and thought-provoking world of "Edward Burtynsky: Oil," a monumental photographic exploration of the oil industry's profound impact on our planet and civilization. This hardcover edition, published by Steidl, presents a decade-long investigation by renowned photographer Edward Burtynsky, showcasing the scale and consequences of our reliance on this vital energy resource. Burtynsky, celebrated for his large-format photographs of industrial landscapes, turns his discerning eye towards the sprawling oil fields, massive refineries, intricate freeway interchanges, and colossal automobile plants that define our oil-dependent world. Beyond the infrastructure, the book delves into the cultural aspects of oil, capturing the essence of motor culture and the collective fascination with vehicles. The book goes to car events to capture the culture of oil. This first edition is more than just a collection of beautiful images; it's a visual essay that prompts reflection on the cumulative effects of industrial evolution and the environmental price we pay for our modern lifestyles. Burtynsky's powerful photographs, combined with insightful text, provide a sobering yet captivating perspective on the complex relationship between humanity and oil. **Why This Book Matters:** * **Visually Stunning:** Burtynsky's masterful photography transforms industrial landscapes into captivating works of art, revealing both the beauty and the unsettling reality of our reliance on oil. His aerial perspective is mesmerizing. * **Thought-Provoking:** The book encourages critical thinking about the environmental and social consequences of our energy choices, sparking dialogue about sustainability and the future of our planet. Burtynsky makes you think about energy and how important it is. * **Comprehensive Exploration:** Spanning a decade of research and photography, "Oil" offers a comprehensive and in-depth examination of the oil industry, from extraction to consumption. * **Critically Acclaimed:** Edward Burtynsky is an internationally acclaimed photographer whose work has been exhibited in major museums around the world. "Oil" is considered one of his most significant and impactful projects. * **Important Commentary:** The book serves as a powerful visual statement on climate change, resource depletion, and the urgent need for a more sustainable future. It is a document of our times. **About the Authors:** * **Edward Burtynsky:** A Canadian photographer known for his large-format colour photographs of industrial landscapes. His work explores the impact of industrial activities on the environment and human society. Burtynsky's photographs are held in the collections of over fifty major museums around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim Museum, and the National Gallery of Canada. * **Michael Mitchell and William Rees:** They provide important textual context and perspectives, which is very important. **Perfect For:** * Photography enthusiasts seeking visually stunning and thought-provoking imagery. * Environmentalists and anyone concerned about climate change and sustainability. * Art collectors and those interested in contemporary art that addresses important social and environmental issues. * Anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the oil industry and its impact on our world. Immerse yourself in the powerful and unsettling beauty of "Edward Burtynsky: Oil." It's a visual journey that will leave you questioning the world around you and inspiring you to consider the future we are creating.