This photo shows the faded centrepiece of an abandoned paper factory in the Black Forest: a once central control cabinet that has been scarred by the ravages of time. The analogue ammeters, criss-crossed with fine cracks, look back silently to an era when machines rattled here and energy pulsed through the cables. The rotary switches are arranged in rows as if they were still waiting for a command - but their function has long since been silenced. Rust, mould and peeling paint bear witness to decades of neglect. Handwritten notes can still be recognised above some of the dials, barely legible, almost like a secret note from a bygone era. Every square centimetre of this control panel tells a story of industrial boom, decline and reconquest by nature. It is an impressive testimony to the transience of technical civilisation and a fascinating motif for anyone looking for something special in decay. This scenery blurs the boundaries between technology museum and ghostly backdrop - a paradise for urban explorers and fans of photographic lost-place flair.
 
                                Welcome to my world of photography! My name is Marcel Hechler and for many years my faithful companion, my camera, has accompanied me on numerous hikes in the Alps as well as in my explorations of lost places and modern or historic buildings. I am always on the.. Read more…
 Industrial offence in the machine roomMarcel Hechler
Industrial offence in the machine roomMarcel Hechler Rust and pipes - technical relic in the forestMarcel Hechler
Rust and pipes - technical relic in the forestMarcel Hechler Pressure display in the shadow of timeMarcel Hechler
Pressure display in the shadow of timeMarcel Hechler Standstill under pressureMarcel Hechler
Standstill under pressureMarcel Hechler Control centre in a deep sleepMarcel Hechler
Control centre in a deep sleepMarcel Hechler Blinking in the dust of the pastMarcel Hechler
Blinking in the dust of the pastMarcel Hechler Lost control in the flow of timeMarcel Hechler
Lost control in the flow of timeMarcel Hechler Wheels of the pastMarcel Hechler
Wheels of the pastMarcel Hechler Dilapidated alley in the machine heartMarcel Hechler
Dilapidated alley in the machine heartMarcel Hechler Art in decayMarcel Hechler
Art in decayMarcel Hechler