A Detroit Nocturne

In this mesmerizing photo essay, photographer Jordano (Detroit: Unbroken Down) again documents signs of the struggles and revival of Motor City. Both haunting and awe inspiring, this collection of photos serves as a simple yet effective ode to the unbreakable spirit of Detroit’s residents. Though few images show any people, their presence is still keenly felt as Jordano makes his way down the streets of Eastside and Westside Detroit. Photos of bars, shops, community gardens, burger joints, and strip clubs show signs of a community amid the peeling paint and decaying infrastructure of the buildings themselves. His love for his hometown does not, however, blind Jordano to unpleasant truths: images of dilapidated gas stations, vacant lots, and graffiti tags serve as potent reminders of the harsh realities inherent to everyday existence in the city. Photos of dingy basketball hoops—one with a shattered backboard, others worn from overuse—may speak of a troubled past, yet also hint at a brighter future. Jordano’s mastery of subtlety creates more than just thought-provoking images, it also transforms them into majestic and powerful promises of hope. (Apr.)