From Personal Archive to Global Community: The Evolution of allcitiesarebeautiful.com

In a recent interview conducted by Mark Bessoudo, Fellow of The Centre for Conscious Design (CCD), Alexandre Kurek, the creative mind behind the platform allcitiesarebeautiful.com, investigates the possibilities of photography in shaping our perception of the built environment. With a focus on urban landscapes and architectural nuances, Alexandre offers captivating insights into the intricate relationship between photography, cityscapes, and human experiences. As the dialogue unfolds, Alexandre shares his journey from his upbringing to his current base in Berlin, intertwining his passion for photography with his early experiences in skateboarding. Through these anecdotes, he reveals how his fascination with urban exploration and artistic expression laid the foundation for the platform, allcitiesarebeautiful.com.

Initially conceived as a personal repository for Alexandre’s photographic endeavors, allcitiesarebeautiful.com has developed into a thriving hub for urban and architectural photographers worldwide. He recounts the platform's humble beginnings and its evolution into a vibrant community-driven space, highlighting the diverse array of voices and perspectives it amplifies. With a playful nod to the platform's name, Alexandre sheds light on his philosophy of urban beauty and the underlying message of inclusivity and appreciation for cities and urban spaces in general—his insights resonate with CCD's mission to promote healthy built environments through Conscious Design principles, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the richness and diversity of urban landscapes.

Photography as a Catalyst for Change: Reshaping Urban Narratives

Through Alexandre’s lens, urban photography transcends mere documentation, becoming a powerful tool for challenging perceptions and sparking dialogue. By capturing the essence of city life, he encourages us to reimagine our surroundings and envision more inclusive and sustainable urban futures. In a nod to technological advancements, Alexandre reflects on the role of AI-generated imagery in shaping the future of urban photography. While embracing the creative possibilities afforded by these tools, Alexandre raises important questions about authenticity and representation in urban documentation.

As the interview draws to a close, Alexandre expresses gratitude for the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the beauty of urban spaces. Through his work and words, he reminds us that amidst the bustling cityscapes, there is beauty to be found in every corner—a message that invites readers to embark on their own journey of urban exploration. As urban landscapes continue to evolve, the intersection of photography and urban design offers a rich tapestry of insights and perspectives. Dive deeper into the conversation with Alexandre Kurek and discover the beauty of urban photography through his lens.

Explore the full interview on CCD's blog.

Interview

Editor

Alexandre Kurek

Notes

1–2 Christoph Caudroy, Salt, Amman, Jordan 2014.

From Personal Archive to Global Community: The Evolution of allcitiesarebeautiful.com

In a recent interview conducted by Mark Bessoudo, Fellow of The Centre for Conscious Design (CCD), Alexandre Kurek, the creative mind behind the platform allcitiesarebeautiful.com, investigates the possibilities of photography in shaping our perception of the built environment. With a focus on urban landscapes and architectural nuances, Alexandre offers captivating insights into the intricate relationship between photography, cityscapes, and human experiences. As the dialogue unfolds, Alexandre shares his journey from his upbringing to his current base in Berlin, intertwining his passion for photography with his early experiences in skateboarding. Through these anecdotes, he reveals how his fascination with urban exploration and artistic expression laid the foundation for the platform, allcitiesarebeautiful.com.

Initially conceived as a personal repository for Alexandre’s photographic endeavors, allcitiesarebeautiful.com has developed into a thriving hub for urban and architectural photographers worldwide. He recounts the platform's humble beginnings and its evolution into a vibrant community-driven space, highlighting the diverse array of voices and perspectives it amplifies. With a playful nod to the platform's name, Alexandre sheds light on his philosophy of urban beauty and the underlying message of inclusivity and appreciation for cities and urban spaces in general—his insights resonate with CCD's mission to promote healthy built environments through Conscious Design principles, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the richness and diversity of urban landscapes.