James Kerwin’s Photography Captures The Haunting Beauty Of Cuba’s Ghost Towns

British photographer James Kerwin, now based in Istanbul, has spent over 15 years capturing the charm and character of overlooked urban architecture. His vivid interest in travel and fascination with hidden, often abandoned spaces have shaped his photographic journey, guiding him deep into the heart of cities across the world. Kerwin’s latest project, “Time Suspended”, takes him to Cuba—a nation suspended between its storied past and an uncertain present. The island’s economic struggles have only deepened since the pandemic, yet resilience pulses through everyday life. His portfolio brings to light the duality of hardship and hope on Cuba’s streets: vintage American cars roll past crumbling facades, while faded colonial buildings and elegant art deco theatres bask in the golden light, creating cinematic scenes at every turn. More info: Instagram | JamesKerwin

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Image Source: JamesKerwin With a meticulous approach, Kerwin scouts locations with maps and research, seeking out places rich with history and untold stories. Whether documenting abandoned structures or hidden local gems, his work always seeks to highlight the beauty in decay and the humanity that thrives within it. “My process usually begins with research and scouting,” he explains, “then I build a series around the impressions I gather, refining the images to capture what I felt in the space.” Kerwin’s images invite viewers to see cities anew—not just as bustling centres, but as archives of memory, resilience, and enduring beauty.

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