CONTEMPORARY EXPLORER

  My camera is always drawn by small towns, the buildings and people left behind. Places like Plugs Tires. I don’t know what fully attracts me to them. I can hear them speak to me though. Having grown up in a small town and then moving on. Wondering always what it might be like if I stayed behind. These places are more than just commas and spaces in the paragraphs of life, they partly define you no matter where your travels take you. Maybe it’s because I have always been a loner that old now empty buildings make me pause. Even with camera finding a beauty in these places, I am careful not to find myself left behind….

  Maybe it was the many years that moved along, but Frank had learned the art to stopping. Taking a few moments to observe the passing of life. A sense of vulnerability causing him to be more introspective of what he saw. Frank found the Simon Mall a great place for people watching. Sculptures of circles hung from high ceilings adding high style and class. The chairs in the center areas comfortable. He enjoyed them more in these later years. Kiosks lined the walkways spicing up the offering of brand stores.  One day, Frank sat in his usual chair. Mall walkers passing by in each direction, except for one where a kiosk blocked full view. On the other side he spotted an Indian looking man, slight of build, dressed in earthy colors, neatly worn, shirt buttoned.  He looked the part of a dedicated office or backroom store worker. You imagine things, about people. Frank thought, he did not look like someone who went to the bar with others after work or played in the company golf tournament. H