MAHMUT SAGCAN-AUER
// Mahmut is a photographer based in the Austrian province of Tyrol. For about a decade, Mahmut was deeply immersed in street photography. But after hitting a creative wall and feeling stuck in his growth, he decided to take a different direction, looking at exploring abstraction and colour. In this series, he has created images with a strong focus on colours and shapes, which are juxtaposed in minimalist compositions.
When he enrolled at Prager Fotoschule für künstlerische und angewandte Fotografie in Linz, Austria, Mahmut felt his perspective was limited. Now, he sees the world with a refreshed viewpoint, marked by greater awareness and vibrancy. This transformative journey has rekindled his love for the power of colour.
Mahmut’s ultimate aim is to inspire others to view the world through his eyes — to notice the extraordinary in the ordinary. He hopes to make a meaningful contribution to the story of photography and leave a lasting legacy through his work.
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”
Thomas Merton
What draws you to the arts?
Art is about thinking outside the box, putting yourself in the artist’s shoes, and gaining a new perspective in the process. It’s akin to reading a book that enriches and broadens your understanding.
What do you like best about this project?
I love the geometry, symmetry, and vibrant use of colour in this series.
In this photo series, elements of architecture are highlighted with structural, geometric, and colour-focused characteristics. Mahmut´s emphasis is on vivid colour representation. The photos were captured without the use of AI or Photoshop; they were minimally cropped and colour-saturated. All images were taken on the street without the aid of a tripod.
In abstract architectural photography, colour is key to turning ordinary structures into striking compositions. By focusing on specific colours or combinations, Mahmut creates visual stories that go beyond simply depicting buildings. Bright colours can convey energy and movement, while softer tones might suggest calmness or introspection. The clash of complementary colours can produce dramatic contrasts and tension, whereas harmonious palettes foster unity and balance. Moreover, colour can guide the viewer’s gaze, highlighting certain elements and adding depth to an otherwise flat image.
Colour isn’t just about aesthetics; it can also convey deeper meanings. By thoughtfully considering the psychological and cultural implications of colour, photographers can infuse their abstract architectural images with symbolism and invite viewers to explore layers of meaning.
Looking, for example, at Mahmut´s photo of a bench in front of a pink wall (the cover image), we see a strong example of minimalism in photography. The composition is clean and uncluttered, with a focus on the interplay of shapes and colours. The vibrant pink of the bench stands out against the muted pink of the wall, creating a striking contrast. The repetition of the rounded shapes in the wall adds a sense of visual interest and texture. The simplicity of the scene invites the viewer to contemplate the relationship between the bench and the wall, a juxtaposition that creates a sense of tension and anticipation.
Click on the photos to see the original larger version. Images may be cropped for layout.
All photos © MAHMUT SAGCAN-AUER
To see more of his work, please visit his Instagram page.
SPECTACULUM MAGAZINE 