Decay and Despair - Jason Tothy | Works, Projects, Photography & More

Slide 2

Welcome

Social Justice Analysis

DECAY AND DESPAIR

A Series of Images Examining the Difficult Situations Faced on The South Side of Chicago

"Decay and Despair" examines the difficult situations within impoverished communities in the United States. These four images were taken at a graveyard on the south side of Chicago that is maintained and funded by the surrounding inner-city community. The lack of resources in the community has created a situation where gravesites and buildings are poorly maintained. The pictures reflect a larger tale of decay and despair seen in the surrounding

community.

Slide 2

Decay

Social Justice Analysis

DECAY AND DESPAIR

The first pair of images display the process in which the graves quickly fall into disrepair after initial family maintenance, suggesting that the community cannot provide the longer upkeep over time. The first image shows a recent gravestone with an American flag placed to the rear of the gravestone. Due to the recent laying of the gravestone, the grave overall appears to be in good condition. On the other hand, the second image illustrates the changes over time. This gravesite is scattered with leaves and weeds growing out from underneath the flag. The American flag is decomposing, further revealing the lack of upkeep and suggesting a symbolic decay of the impoverished local community.

Slide 3

DESPAIR

Social Justice Analysis

DECAY AND DESPAIR

The second pair of images further illustrates the difficult situations that impoverished communities face. The first image shows a broken door needing repair. It has peeling paint, protected with chicken wire, and secured with a rusty padlock. The next image consists of a run down building in the this cemetery. This building is in disrepair with pieces of wood falling from the roof onto the chair. The condition of the house in the second picture suggests it is no longer a place of respect within the cemetery. This image could also be a reflection of the surrounding community as it has fallen into financial disrepair with the absence of maintenance suggesting a lack of resources. The composition of images creates a visual story that reflects the surrounding impoverished communities as well as its inability to provide resources to support the cemetery.