Figure 3 depicts somewhat of a relic; a rather large satellite dish. I was inclined to take its photo because it seemed like something others would find insignificant. Satellites dishes are “not generally considered worth looking at by most” (Phillips, 2015). Many urban explorers come to the area to photograph the old Victoria hospital, but few notice the surrounding buildings. I was drawn to this particular building, with this particular satellite dish because I thought it was “intentionally left behind” and had possibly been forgotten (Phillips, 2015).
I would not say the satellite dish was ruined, but it has definitely seen better days. It is weathered and dirty, most likely abandoned, maybe even starting to decay. Decay is “not supposed to be beautiful” (RomanyWG, 2010), it basically means the opposite. When people hear the word decay they think of “rot, entropy, death, failure, unclean” etc. (RomanyWG, 2010). Although, it seems people are more and more able to see the beauty in decay (RomanyWG, 2010).
The course I am taking “Haunted Landscapes,” along with similarly themed courses at other schools, are teaching students to see the beauty in abandoned and decaying objects. Showing new generations how much there is to explore and that just because something is old or uninhabited, does not mean it lacks value or beauty. Before taking this course, I may have seen that satellite dish and wondered why someone does not just take it down. It surely does not work and a new “Victoria Tavern” sign would look much better – because new is always better, right?
Now, I see the satellite dish as a piece of art. This original, untouched dish gives a glimpse into the past. It shows that it has survived all weather and has stayed intact longer than many of the surrounding buildings. The satellite dish is a reminder of where the southeast neighbourhood started, and the potential the area has for reuse and renewal.