Life and Works of Edward Burtynsky - Essay Example

His education shaped the skills that he already possessed as an artist, and helped him develop the techniques of photography that have captivated thousands through his snapshots.

Burtynsky’s photography brings the discreet and hidden realities of human development to the public’s eye and demands an appreciation and evaluation of man’s actions and their effects on nature (Burtynsky, 2009). He has a knack for capturing the most rudimentary and banal sites through his lens and instilling art and finesse into those pictures (Burtynsky, 2009). His early work consists of the industrial landscape of the General Motors plant in his city, which, according to him, evoked a passion for observing nature and capturing industrial development in his photos (Burtynsky, 2009). His exposure to mining sites, recycling plants, industrial waste depots, and other such crass sites was hugely popular in Canada and elsewhere, so very soon he became one of Canada’s most famous and respected photographers (Burtynsky, 2009). The highlight of his career and a major turning point was when he won the TED award in 2005 (TED, 2009). This led to the making of a documentary, called Manufactured Landscape, on the collection of his works of the same title, and his life, in 2007 (TED, 2009). At the award ceremony, Burtynsky made three wishes related to the progress in his work, all of which, due to his immense influence and respect in the art world, have been fulfilled (TED, 2009). He wished for a website to encourage children to think for their planet; the Meet The Greens website was developed (TED, 2009). He wished he would be able to film on Imax; that is currently in progress (TED, 2009). He also wished to influence a worldwide discussion on saving the natural environment; another website, World Changing, is doing the job (TED, 2009).

Burtynsky’s work touches everyone who views it, because it is simple, yet with a strong message. It reaches the masses and strives to make a difference in their lifestyle and attitude toward their environment, and that is precisely how it is perceived.

Burtynsky has, through his art, proven that art and photography do not necessarily have to be limited to a certain class and social stratum; they can reach out to the general public and root for a cause, which, in his case, is an effort to make the world a better place to live in.