This is quite literally the end of Hellingly – the floor finishes here. As the diggers move in I have no doubt that this is now rubble.
I’m going back tomorrow for what will most likely be the last time. I think I have documented the asylum almost enough and have pretty much all of the shots that I want. Externals are on the agenda, so hopefully it wont be raining.
I have to let the emotional attachment go, not something that’s easy to do. This place means a lot to me as I have described in previous posts. It’s funny that the destruction and redevelopment coincides with my 40th birthday next week, both chapters passing at the same time, new houses being built on the old land as my younger years pass and I move towards middle age. Metaphorically both the asylum and I am in the same place, with so much gone past, yet so much to look forward to.
I think I may need to stop listening to Pink Floyd, its been quite fitting over the last weeks.
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Mark, you’ve artistically captured the dereliction, decay and sadness of Hellingly. These haunts are like magnates for hdr photographers. I’ve really enjoyed the series, but I’m happy that it’s time for you to leave. I know that you’re looking forward to your next urbex journey!
This is really great, Mark. I love how you’ve shown the view through to the coming destruction outside. Your documentation of this place is fantastic.
I find myself somewhat emotional reading today’s blog and looking at the marvelous photo. Change is always hard to deal with, myself and Mrs. Toad are dedicated to capturing images of the history of our area before it all disappears, and the act of documenting itself draws you right into the subject. I find myself forming an intimate and emotional bond with all my subjects, so I can just imagine how you must feel with this Mark. You have done an absolutely incredible and wonderful job of documenting it, bringing the stories of the residents and people who worked here back to life for us all to enjoy. I tip my hat to you, good sir, and I know that whatever the future holds for you, all of us will benefit from it. Thank you profusely, Mark.
Wow, stunning shot! I love how you’ve led the eye to the outside. Plus, that wall on the left is really nice!