From empty armchairs and cold stoves to fading wallpaper and single beds long unoccupied, each photograph by Mackay evokes a deep sense of loss and nostalgia. These abandoned houses stand as remnants of a rural way of life that is slowly vanishing, leaving behind echoes of the past in every corner.
During the lockdown, Mackay ventured into these deserted properties, often finding personal belongings like kettles, books, and photographs. For him, the experience was not just about taking pictures but about connecting with the lives once lived there. “I can’t go into an abandoned house without thinking, ‘Who lived here? Why did they leave? Why did nobody else come in behind them?’” he reflects.
Before taking a single photo, Mackay would walk through every room, letting the atmosphere and the traces of past lives inspire his work. He sought permission to enter properties when possible, respecting the boundaries of homes that still held onto their doors and windows.
These abandoned homes reveal the emotional history of the Highlands, painting a vivid picture of rural decline and shifting populations. They remind us that these houses were once vibrant spaces filled with laughter, love, and life, now left to weather the passing of time.
For a deeper look into Angus Mackay’s photography and the stories behind these hauntingly beautiful homes, visit The Scotsman’s feature.
Reference: The Scotsman, 6th December 2024, Alison Campsie.
