Stephen Hilger

In the Alley, 2002–2003
Color Photographs
7 by 17 inches; 17 by 49.5 inches

Stephen Hilger photographed in Beverly Hills’ service alleys–the narrow spaces behind the homes–in the affluent suburb in Los Angeles. The resulting images describe the unseen spaces behind the neighborhood’s houses and make visible the economies of service and security that support the city’s privileged residents. Hilger utilized a panoramic camera to highlight the horizontality of the long passageways and to allude to the place’s relationship to Hollywood.

A leporello-bound book featuring 22 of Hilger’s alley photographs is available now from Purple Martin Press. The book, designed by Julie Fry and edited by Peter Kayafas, features an essay by Matthew Specktor and a conversation between James Welling and Hilger. Order the book at Artbook / D.A.P or find it at your favorite bookstore.