community

Exploring Salt Lake City Through the Lens of @SLSees: A Unique Perspective

Bryant Heath, known as @SLSees, captures Salt Lake City's hidden gems, inspiring community exploration through his photography.

Featured image for article: Exploring Salt Lake City Through the Lens of @SLSees: A Unique Perspective
In an age where social media often shapes our perceptions of cities, few individuals manage to capture the essence of urban life as effectively as Bryant Heath, known online as @SLSees. A resident of Salt Lake City, Heath has embarked on a photographic journey that highlights the quirky, unusual, and hidden gems of the city. His commitment to exploring every nook and cranny of Salt Lake City has not only garnered him a substantial following on platforms like Instagram but has also led to the publication of his book, "Interesting Salt Lake City Sights." Heath's fascination with Salt Lake City began a few years ago when he undertook the ambitious project of running every street in the city. Spanning approximately 1,000 miles, this endeavor allowed him to witness the diverse fabric of the city firsthand. "I literally saw everything in and around Salt Lake," Heath said in a recent interview with FOX 13 News. This extensive exploration sparked a passion for documenting the unique aspects of the city, leading him to capture photographs of everything from unique billboards to hidden murals. His Instagram account showcases a wide array of visual stories that range from nostalgic tributes to local icons, like the billboards honoring Julia Reagan of the famed Reagan Outdoor Advertising family, to vibrant street art tucked away in less-traveled alleyways. "It’s something about getting off the major roadways, off the beaten path to kind of go off into some of these side streets," he explained. Heath emphasizes that the magic often lies in the overlooked corners of the city, where one can stumble upon treasures that tell a story of their own. Heath employs a mix of traditional photography and modern technology to enrich his documentation. While he often captures images with his cell phone, he occasionally utilizes a drone to provide a fresh aerial perspective on Salt Lake City’s landscape. This dual approach not only enhances the visual appeal of his work but also allows viewers to appreciate the city from various angles. Heath has developed friendships with local artists, documenting the ever-evolving graffiti and street art scene. During a recent guided tour of the Glendale neighborhood, Heath pointed out public art installations that residents may overlook in their daily routines. He highlighted the Summum pyramid, an intriguing structure that stands out amidst the suburban backdrop. "These blink-and-you'll-miss-it unique finds are what make this city truly special," he remarked, underscoring the importance of community engagement and exploration. The culmination of Heath’s work is encapsulated in his book, "Interesting Salt Lake City Sights," which serves as both a visual guide and an homage to the city's diverse culture and artistic expressions. The book is not merely a collection of photographs; it is a celebration of the stories and memories associated with each image. Heath hopes to inspire others to appreciate the beauty and complexity of their surroundings. Moreover, Heath expresses a deep appreciation for community pride, noting that many residents tend to confine themselves to familiar neighborhoods. "Most of the time we kind of live in these pockets of kind of where our house is, where we work, maybe a few restaurant spots that we like to partake. But just the city as a whole is just incredibly vast," he explained. This realization has motivated him to encourage others to venture beyond their comfort zones and explore the wider landscape of Salt Lake City. The impact of Heath’s work extends beyond just photography; it fosters a sense of community and belonging. By showcasing the often-ignored aspects of the city, he invites residents and visitors alike to engage with Salt Lake City in a meaningful way. His commitment to discovering the unique elements of his environment resonates with many, reminding us all of the beauty that can be found in the everyday. As a prominent figure on social media and a local ambassador for Salt Lake City, Bryant Heath exemplifies how one person's passion can illuminate the hidden treasures of a community. His journey serves as both an artistic endeavor and a call to action for others to explore, appreciate, and take pride in their local surroundings. With each post, he not only captures moments in time but also encourages a collective exploration of the vibrant life that thrives in Salt Lake City.