By: Marcelo Pozo
Walking is something I have always done without thinking. It just became second nature to me ever since I first learned how to walk. Throughout this project I have opened my eyes and have been exposed to many ideas, concerns, and thoughts. I have realized how much I overlook even the smallest things. My entries became more about what I notice and feel rather than a destination. Throughout the project I described and analyzed what raised my attention.
There were a couple themes that surface throughout my project. The first being how walking raised awareness and discovery. Walking throughout Blacksburg completing this project resulted in my discovering and thinking about places and objects in a way I never have before. Another theme that surfaced was the contrast in colors and objects in photograph. Although I did not realize it at the time of taking the photograph. Afterwards I was able to make observations about contrasts in the photograph and truly depict what makes the photograph unique. These depictions later shaped my observations and understanding of photography.
As I look back on my entries, I realize that walking became more than just the movement of getting from one place to another. Walking to me now is paying attention to small details surrounding me, how I feel in certain places, how I compare places, the purpose of places, and much more. This project helped me understand how walking connects me with a place with my senses, thoughts, and observations. This project taught me to approach my walks with curiosity and attention.
A – Awkward Sidewalk
2.18 A Wish for Something to be Different
Figure 21. A photograph of a sidewalk made of bricks alongside Drillfield Drive. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking on this part of the sidewalk I notice the discomfort and unevenness of the floor under my feet with each step feeling more uncomfortable than the previous. The raised edges and loose stones make me wish it never existed. A simple repair or completely new redesign would improve the sidewalk’s quality. As I take each step along this sidewalk, concern for my safety increases in each step. Walking on this sidewalk raises my concern for my safety in each step making me realize this is a flaw on campus. (90)
B – Backpack essentials
2.23 The Things You Carry
Figure 04. My backpack and the items inside I carry to school everyday. These items are my essentials for school. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
I unpacked my backpack and arranged them by most used from top to bottom. In order, these contents are a laptop, tablet, earbuds, water bottle, journal, sticky notes, and a pencil. After unpacking my contents I came to a realization that I am a very simplistic person when it comes to school essentials. The colors of my least used items make me wonder if I have stray away from bright colored items as that’s what my least used items are. The items in my backpack reflect my simplicity and organization. (90)
C – Club Softball
2.08 Sporting Event
Figure 08. A photograph of club softball on game night on October 10th. The game started at 7:30 and had minimal crowd presence. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Usually I attend only football games at Virginia Tech. However I wanted a different atmosphere, so I went to a softball game. The environment was quiet. The quietness made each play feel more intense and significant compared to a football game. The minimal sound presence allowed me to be much more invested in each play. The stands being so close to the field allowed for a feeling of almost being a player in the game. However, when noise levels were raised from cheering and yelling, everything was heard crystal clear. (90)
D – Daily Wear
2.02 Shoe Portraits, Shoe Memories
Figure 01. A close up on my shoes on a mulchy and rocky path near the duck pond lot at Virginia Tech. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Although Birkenstock clogs may not be best suited for a mulchy and rocky trail, I still choose to wear them because of comfort. As I walked on the path near the duck pond I recognized the color blend between my shoes and mulch. At the same time I noticed the color contraction between the light grey colored rocks and my shoes. No matter the weather, temperature, or season, I will be wearing these shoes nine times out of ten. The minimal scuffing reminds me of my care for the shoes. (90)
E – Emergency Post
3.15 Camera Awareness
Figure 02. One of multiple Virginia Tech emergency posts on campus. This specific emergency post sits in front of the war memorial hall in front of the Drillfield and contains a calling system to an emergency hotline, light, and a camera. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
I was never concerned about Virginia Tech’s safety and security on campus regarding cameras. However, I wasn’t aware of how many cameras there were on campus until I started to look for them. I spotted one and then another, emphasizing Virginia Tech’s efforts in security and safety. This specific camera in the photograph stood out to me as it is different from others. It is directly above an emergency light post with a blue light. The bright blue light reassures students of safety and comfort on campus, even at night. (90)
F – Food Line
2.16 Waiting in Line
Figure 12. A photograph of students in line at the Dietrick Hall grocery store on Virginia Tech campus. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
When in line for food, my pace of walking slows down. As I stand behind others, I notice small details surrounding me such as snack labels, refrigerator noises, item scanning beeps, and conversations in the background. Some people choose to be on their phones in the line, while others choose to stare around. When someone dequeues from the front of the line, those in line shuffle forward moving almost in rhythm. Although waiting in line can be inconvenient, it allows me to pay closer attention to small details around me. (90)
G – Garden
2.09 Hahn Horticulture Garden
Figure 13. A photograph of a waterfall leading into a river surrounded by rocks and plants in front of a wooden bridge in the Hahn Horticulture Garden. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo).
Walking in the garden at this time of the year I was not expecting anything to blow away my eyes. However, that changed when I came across a miniature waterfall. The sound of the water splashing and watching it flow gave me a sense of relaxation and peace. The waterfall sitting directly in the middle view of the bridge and centered with the rocks highlights its presence. I can only imagine how well the blossomed flowers and sunlight contrast with the miniature waterfall in the peak seasons, spring and summer. (90)
H – Hidden Path
2.17 Desire Paths
Figure 22. A photograph of a faint line over a body of grass on the Drillfield. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking across the Drillfield at night can be difficult as light only hits paved paths. Walking off the paths I notice a faint white line in the grass. I follow the straight line and reach another paved path. I wonder if this line is a hint at a new path on the Drillfield? The dead flat grass emphasizes the desire for this path as it hints at repeated footsteps carved by students on campus. With no lights hitting the white lined path, I walk in darkness trusting the lined path.
I – Illuminated Ritual
3.22 Change the Ritual
Figure 26. A photograph of The Lyric theater downtown Blacksburg. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking past The Lyric theater at night has always felt like a ritual for me. Although I never have entered, I admire it. .I usually just walk by it, so for this walk I slowed my pace as I walked by. Walking slower allowed me to notice more details. I notice the bright and glowing lights giving off a feeling of warmth and welcoming. I feel illuminated by the theater. In the background I hear footsteps walking in rhythm alongside quiet conversations. I continue my walk feeling safer and confident. (90)
J – John S. Moody Bench
2.05 A Good Bench
Figure 07. A photograph of John S. Moody Plaza memorial. John was a former football player for Virginia Tech, veteran, and fundraiser for Virginia Tech Athletics. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
As I go searching for a bench, I unexpectedly come across a unique bench which holds meaning for a former Virginia Tech friend who passed away. Attached to the bench is a statue of John S. Moody which gives me a sense of him always being with the school and community. This bench is all made up of 1 specific metal material I assume to preserve the memorial. I was going to sit on the bench, but then came to a realization that for respect to the memorial should not. (90)
K – Knocked Over Trash
2.24 A Meditation on Garbage
Figure 11. A photograph of a knocked over trash can along a sidewalk downtown Blacksburg on College Ave. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking downtown, I notice a trash can knocked over onto its side, spilling trash across the brick floor. The longer I stared at the trashcan, the more it emphasized a moment of neglect for the trashcan in a popular area, usually a well kept area. I wonder who or what caused this. Could it have been a street brawl? A drunk college student? A car? The wind? I guess I will never know. Cigarettes can be seen surrounding the rim of the trash can, ashes sprinkled across on the floor. (90)
L – Leafless Park
2.30 What’s Growing in Marcia’s Park?
Figure 20. A photograph of leafless trees in Marcia Park. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking into Marcia Park I immediately notice the cluster of leafless trees. The tree branches form patterns upward into the dark sky and background. The environment gives off a feeling of emptiness as if something was missing. This feeling I can assume is a result of the season changing to winter causing leaves to fall, plants to die, and weather to be gloomy. Walking through the park only sounds of gusting wind and steps can be heard. The lights surrounding the park cast off subtle stretched shadows of the trees. (90)
M – Memorial
2.27 4/26 Memorial
Figure 16. A photograph of the April 26th 2007 memorial in front of Burrus hall. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking through the Drillfield I often glance at the 4/26 memorial. The emphasis on its presence with details surrounding it remind me of how deeply the memorial matters to the Virginia Tech community. The flowers, lights, flags, signs, and other details emphasize the memorials’ significance and remembrance for those who passed. The centered alignment with Burrus hall and glowing lights in the background give off a sense of importance. Even at night with gusting winds and a dark sky the memorial still stands tall and stands out on campus.
N – Night Sky
3.14 Star Gazing
Figure 05. A view of the Drillfield and night sky from the April 16th memorial on the Drillfield. The picture is illuminated by a light post from the right creating a darkening gradient towards the left of the image. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
I don’t usually walk at night on campus. However, doing so creates a different aesthetic for me compared to walking during the day. I gain an urgency to stop and take in the view, cool air, and emptiness. Darkness usually makes me feel scared or alone, but the darkness looking over the Drillfield and the sky makes me feel relaxed and independent. The presence of clouds is minimal adding to a relaxed feeling along with a minimal presence of stars adding to a sense of self reflection and clear mind. (90)
O – Overview
2.03 Overhead at Time of Day
Figure 06. A view of the Drillfield, trees, and sky from the Virginia Tech War Memorial Chapel. The picture illuminates a gradient of lighter colors as you look towards the right of the image. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
As I take a break from walking to class to breathe in fresh air looking over the Drillfield, I see a familiar building directly in the center of my view. That familiar building was my freshmen dorm, Slusher Tower, where all of my freshmen year memories are held. The changing colors of leaves on the trees around me remind me of the season change. The soft falling and blowing of leaves provides a sense of relaxation and soothing for the eyes. The bright clouds above emphasize the tree’s color changes. (90)
P – Pine Tree
2.10 Favorite Tree, A Note of Appreciation
Figure 09. A photograph of a pine tree near a duck pond. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking by campus I unintentionally found my favorite tree by duckpond lot. To others they might not think much of this pine tree. However it stood out to me. This pine tree is the only tree in the area with a large amount of leaves on it. It gives off a sense of fullness compared to others. Looking at the pine tree reminds me of the upcoming holidays such as Christmas. Curiosity runs through my mind on the science behind the trees’ health and fullness this late in the year. (90)
Q – Quiet Plaza
3.16 Non- Commercial Walk
Figure 25. A photograph of the entrance of the Food Lion grocery store located on Patrick Henry Drive. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking through the Patrick Henry Plaza without any intentions to shop felt weird at first. All I could think to do was observe my surroundings. I frequently saw shoppers entering and leaving the Food Lion grocery store. Some took longer than others. Soft lighting hit the parking lot from the store. I listened to carts stroll on the pavement, conversations in the background, grocery bags ruffling, and cars coming in and out of the parking lot. The night setting emphasized the calmness of shoppers and goal to shop for groceries. (90)
R – Refrigerator
2.12 Indoor Walk
Figure 14. A photograph of a sketch drawn by Marcelo Pozo of his path from his room, to his home fridge. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
One of the most popular trips I make in my home is from my room to my refrigerator. As I traced the steps for this path I realized how I overlooked the simple walk, each step being more noticeable than usual. I counted 50 total steps for this walk, moving in a calm paced rhythmic pattern while I listen to my socks slide against the carpet in each step. Looking at the drawn map, I notice how many extra steps and turns I have to take because of the stairs. (90)
S – Stadium Sound
3.09 Sound Archive
Figure 03. A top stadium view of the Virginia Tech vs Vanderbilt game in the first quarter at Lane Stadium. The sunset contains vivid and bright colors contrasting to the field. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Virginia Tech’s football games never fail to live up to its expectations, no matter the end game result. To start the game Enter Sandman is played and sung in unison by the fans, but it doesn’t stop there. Chants are roared left and right, fireworks burst loudly, horns are played in rhythm, and much more. Being in the stadium you feel the pulse of the sound and energy in the crowd from the vibrations of the bleachers to the crowd noise made. The noise forms unity amongst the hokie nation. (90)
T – Time Saving
2.12 Indoor Walk
Figure 15. A photograph of four sets of stairs taken from a moving elevator at squires student building. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Each time I take the elevator in the squires building it reminds me of the time and hassle I save as the elevator window points directly to four sets of stairs. My habit formed during longer school days where taking the stairs felt like it took more effort than usual with my heavy backpack, so I began to take the elevator and never looked back. Taking the elevator brings a sense of privacy and peace through its encapsulation and slow humming noises as it goes up and down the building. (90)
U – Unexpected Findings
3.01 Reflective Preparatory Practice
Figure 17. A photograph of a jumbo version of chess board and chess pieces found in the squires student building. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
When I walk I often discover something new or come across something unexpected, even in familiar buildings. This is part of my “why” for walking. Finding a jumbo chessboard inside of the Squires building reminded me of why I enjoy wandering without a set plan. I walk to notice surprises like this one! My attention searches for an object, scene, nature, or person to give it too when I walk. Walking gives me a sense of peace, especially when I have nowhere to be. A steady slow pace brings peace. (90)
V – Vaulted Engine
2.07 What Even Goes On In There?
Figure 18. A photo of an engine hanging from the ceiling found in Goodwin Hall. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Walking into the engineering building I immediately felt small as I found myself standing under a huge engine hanging from the ceiling. Surrounding me are other engineered technologies for display. I instantly felt an aura of innovation and growing technology. The exposed metal framings, wires, and other small details emphasize the futuristic like sculpting of the engine. I heard echoes, soft footsteps, and distance conversations bouncing off the walls. Being in the building even for a short amount of time made me realize how much engineering blends creativity and precision. (90)
W – Water Presence
2.19 Duck Pond
Figure 10. A photograph of the Duck Pond at Virginia Tech from a waterside gazebo. The photo was taken in the evening around 5:00PM. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
Oftentimes I come to Virginia Tech’s Duck Pond as it is a close-by body of water. The water rippling and movement gives a sense of relaxation and calmness. It is similar to a pond near my home giving me a sense of a piece of home here at Virginia Tech. To emphasize the soothing feeling ponds give me, the sunset gives a sleek contrast to the water, clouds, sky, and trees. At this view I hear a small number of runners nearby adding to that relaxed feeling through synchronized steps. (90)
X – eXpedition Shelter
3.27 Epic Walking Story
Figure 23. A photograph of a wooden hut with benches in Hahn Garden. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
As I walk deeper into the Hahn Garden at night I walk through muddy and stiff terrain. A difficult path to follow I think to myself surely there has to be a purpose for this. Lighting is minimal with quiet sounds of conversations in the background. Lost in the garden I follow the sound of conversations. At last, I found a wooden shelter hut with resting pilgrims. At first the pilgrims were scared, but then welcomed me. Interacting with the pilgrims I get a reminder of my family back home. (90)
Y – Yield To Pedestrians!
2.14 Signage
Figure 19. A picture of a yield to pedestrian walking sign surrounded with led lights surrounding the sign. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
While passing through campus at night, one specific sign stood out more than the rest. This sign is the yield to pedestrian walking sign as it was reflective and had LED lights flashing around it. This gave me a strong sense of safety for myself and other students in the community. Seeing the LED lights made me realize how much student safety is important to Virginia Tech. With dark skies and wind gusts, it may be hard to identify walking students. However, Virginia Tech makes the campus feel more secure. (90)
Z – Zero Distance Walk
2.32 Shortest Walk
Figure 24. A photograph of the corner of a bed and bathroom entrance. (Original photograph taken with Canon G7X, Marcelo Pozo)
My shortest walk begins. I wake up. I stretch. I begin walking. I take two steps. I open the door. The door creaks quietly. The bathroom sits ahead. I take two steps. The walk feels short. It lasted seconds. This walk is daily. It is my routine. I have more routines. I brush my teeth. I wash my face. I shave my mustache. I take my time. I turn around. I walk two steps. I close the door. I hear creaking. I take two more steps. I get in bed.