Sub-Saharan Africa is poised to become the next major industrial hotspot due to its abundance of untapped resources. However, this economic growth comes with the risk of resource depletion. Artist and photographer Edward Burtynsky captures the scale of these changes in his upcoming photography book, African Studies. Over the course of four years, Burtynsky used drones and aircraft to capture the landscapes of sub-Saharan Africa, showcasing the impact of globalism on the continent.
Salt water trickles into these human-made ponds near Naglou Sam Sam, Senegal
Edward Burtynsky
Two of the images illustrate saltworks in Senegal, the largest producer of salt in West Africa. The salt water trickles into human-made ponds near Naglou Sam Sam and Tikat Banguel before evaporating, leaving behind the salt. The vibrant colors of the ponds are a result of minerals, pigments, and algae that give the water different hues based on salinity.
Saltworks in Swakopmund, Namibia
Edward Burtynsky
Another image features the Sishen iron ore mine in South Africa, one of the world’s largest producers of iron ore used in steelmaking.
Sishen iron ore mine near the town of Kathu in South Africa
Edward Burtynsky
Burtynsky’s photographs will be exhibited at the Flowers Gallery in London from October 14 to November 19.
