WEST PORTALS

Moving from the East Coast to the West Coast after three decades is akin to stepping through a portal into a parallel world, one familiar yet distinct, a mosaic of contrasts and continuities. Kyle Warren Smith’s project, ‘West Portals’, captures this transformative journey, illuminating the nuanced experience of transitioning between these two iconic American landscapes.

The East Coast, with its rich historical tapestry, is steeped in tradition and continuity. This region is characterized by its dense urban environments, marked by skyscrapers and brownstones. The rhythm of life is fast-paced and the seasons pronounced.

After thirty years, the move to the West Coast is a leap into a realm that feels like a blend of the familiar and the exotic. The West Coast, with its sun-drenched landscapes and expansive horizons, offers a different kind of allure. Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle embody a spirit of innovation and a laid-back lifestyle, contrasted sharply with the East’s hustle and bustle. The architecture is modern and sprawling, the air filled with a sense of endless possibility and new beginnings.

One of the most striking changes is the climate. The temperate, often foggy mornings of the Pacific Coast are a world away from the humid summers and snowy winters of the East. The West Coast’s emphasis on outdoor living, with its year-round pleasant weather, encourages a lifestyle that embraces nature, from the majestic redwoods to the serene Pacific beaches. This shift not only alters daily routines but also fosters a deeper connection to the natural world.

The West Coast is known for being laid-back, in contrast to the more formal East. This shift can be both refreshing and challenging, requiring adaptation.

Kyle Warren Smith’s ‘West Portals’ project encapsulates this journey, portraying the emotional and physical landscapes encountered when moving from one coast to the other. His photographs capture the essence of this transition, the beauty and the complexity, the excitement of new beginnings tempered by the nostalgia for what is left behind. Through his lens, we see the transformation of identity and place, a reflection on how moving across the country reshapes one’s perspective and way of life.