Title: Rediscovering the Essence of 1980s New York City Through Willy Spiller’s Subway Time Capsule
In a remarkable visual journey, Swiss photographer Willy Spiller captured the spirit of 1980s New York City through his lens, specifically focusing on the subway system. Over the course of eight years, from 1977 until 1984, Spiller compiled an extraordinary collection of nearly 2,000 images, creating a striking visual time capsule that offers a glimpse into a critical moment in the city’s history.
Known as Hell on Wheels, Spiller’s collection has become a highly sought-after portrayal of both the positive and negative aspects of that era. Initially published in 1986, the images garnered significant acclaim upon their re-release in 2016. However, this edition quickly went out of print, leaving enthusiasts longing for a chance to experience the evocative power of Spiller’s work once again. Fortunately, Bildhalle has answered the call by publishing a redesigned edition of Hell on Wheels, which also incorporates previously unseen photographs.
The newly released edition of Hell on Wheels features an insightful text by former LIFE magazine editor-in-chief, Bill Shapiro. Shapiro’s contribution lends crucial context to Spiller’s street photography. While many might focus on the dangers Spiller faced while capturing these images, given the high crime rate prevalent in the subway at that time, Shapiro perceives a more nuanced perspective. Four decades later, these photographs offer a subtler, more nostalgic glimpse into life in New York City. Spiller’s work no longer instills fear; instead, it evokes a sentimental longing for a bygone era.
Sharing his perspective on the series, Willy Spiller says, As a forever lover of fairy tales, I was always captivated when I dove into the rattling world of these mobile metal living rooms, like Alice in Wonderland. I never knew whether the next moment would be threatening, violent, funny, frightening, or delightful. Here, I could blissfully observe and capture the vast human menagerie of the metropolis. Communication between passengers, if any, was subtle. People crammed together for the duration of a ride appeared as though they would rather ignore any differences: status, culture, ethnicity, religion, gender, or age. They seemed equally exposed and uninhibited — as if they had left their private lives above ground — curiously indifferent to me and my camera.
For fans of street photography, both signed and unsigned copies of Hell on Wheels are now available on the Bildhalle website. Additionally, a limited edition version, which includes a signed print, is also available to truly commemorate this iconic collection. With only 1,000 copies in print, enthusiasts are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their own piece of Willy Spiller’s unforgettable work.
In today’s fast-paced world, experiencing Willy Spiller’s captivating photographs offers a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the vibrant essence of 1980s New York City. The redesigned edition of Hell on Wheels, filled with previously unseen images, serves as a testament to the timeless appeal and enduring power of Spiller’s street photography. Don’t miss the chance to witness history frozen in time and rediscover the remarkable stories hidden within this visual masterpiece.
