In 2022, MAF held its second annual photography competition, ‘Architecture Inspires!’
MAF invited anyone with a camera – from architecture enthusiasts with a cell phone camera to professional photographers – to take and submit one-of-a-kind images showing how architecture inspires, motivates, and connects with people, and containing some representation of a unique relationship between people and places located in Michigan. (the 2023 contest will be announced soon – be sure to check back for details!)
The winning entries (and their photographers):
First Prize: Sarah Britain, “Grown-up Tree Houses”
Taken at Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan
Sarah’s comments included: Nostalgic vistas in a grown-up’s tree house. It’s about composition – the way the soon-to-be memory sits in the frame and takes up space in the sky, and in my mind. Jury comments included: We agree with Sarah’s thoughts on how the structure evokes the nostalgic feeling of childhood experiences with architecture.
Second Prize: David Battle, “Woosley Fly-In (the fort)”
Taken at Woolsey Memorial Airport in Northport, Michigan
David’s comments included: The once turn-of-the-century dairy farm building was repurposed as an airfield structure by a family to memorialize their pioneer aviator son. Jury comments included: We loved the way a repurposed dairy farm can become a place of celebration and remembrance.
Third Prize: Larry Hamilton, “Standing in the Shadows”
Location unknown
Jury comments included: We named the photo “standing in the shadows” because of the rich depth of light and dark captured in this moment in time. We enjoy the painting-like quality of this photo.
Honorable Mention: David Battle, “Falling Water”
Taken at Falling Waters Lodge in Leland, Michigan
Jury comments included: The energy in this image makes us want to be there and experience this spot where you can be in a place where the beauty of Michigan is intertwined with architecture.