“Every space and every place serves as inspiration; photography is a tool to reveal and share the beauty around us.” This sentiment resonates deeply with Melissa Szpik, Studio W Architects’ Senior Project Architect, who recently stepped outside her comfort zone to embrace a new passion: architectural photography. Encouraged by her hairdresser’s experience in the competition, Melissa decided to submit eight of her own photographs into the annual AIA Central Valley Architectura Obscura Photography Competition.
The Architectura Obscura Photography Competition is part of Experience Architecture, an annual series of events spanning ten weeks. These public outreach events showcase how architects shape our built environment and its impact on daily life, fostering ongoing dialogue to cultivate a unique regional architectural identity while highlighting the connections between the region and its architecture. Some of the events include Design Narrative lectures, the Tour d’Architecture bike tour, Hands-on Architecture for Kids, mixers and many more, all aimed at inspiring attendees through interactive experiences, networking with emerging industry professionals and encouraging meaningful design conversations. The Architectura Obscura Photography Competition brings together students, professionals and hobbyists to “experience architecture through photography,” aiming to emphasize the significance of architecture both globally and within the Sacramento area.
With years of experience in the architecture industry and a background in staging photos for film, Melissa has honed her ability to capture dramatic perspectives. Through her involvement in the competition, she discovered that “architects have a special vision.” Participating also inspired her to print her photographs, moving beyond viewing them on a screen. Influenced by the industrial photographs of Bernd and Hilla Becher and inspired by her travels, Melissa found many of the places in her work during her explorations. One standout photograph, recognized by the jurors, was taken in Gdansk, Poland. There, she stumbled upon a historic shipyard that operated from 1844 to 2018. “There was so much history to absorb, and the urge to document it was overwhelming,” she reflected.
Congratulations to Melissa on being recognized and earning three out of the 10 notable entries! We are so proud of your accomplishments! For anyone considering entering next year’s competition, Melissa encourages you to “do it!” Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow from the experience. Students can participate in the Architectura Obscura Competition for free, simply needing to submit a digital print.
For more information on Experience Architecture 2024 and to view the entire event line-up, check out the Event Guide.
Take a look at pages 25-28 to view the winners and notable mentions’ photography from the Architectura Obscura Photography Competition.
