Ben Marcin's 'The Holdouts' Documents 16 Years of Baltimore's Abandoned Homes

Photographer Ben Marcin has unveiled his first photobook, 'The Holdouts,' after 16 years of capturing abandoned structures in Baltimore and the Eastern Shore, with publication by Gost. This project features dilapidated row houses in the inner city that have withstood demolition, alongside deserted farmhouses where families have either passed away or relocated. Additionally, Marcin documented temporary homeless encampments in the city, none of which lasted over a year. The title alludes to a real estate concept regarding property owners who resist selling, although Marcin clarifies that his subjects are not literal holdouts. He intentionally excluded people from the images to enhance the mystery, despite engaging in conversations with residents. Having focused on documenting living spaces for nearly 40 years, Marcin eventually concentrated his work near his Baltimore home.