Another significant focus of Strand’s photographic exploration lies in the colossal human footprint left by the Rio Tinto mine nestled within the Andalusian mountains. Spanning a staggering 5×10 km, this mammoth excavation represents more than a mere cavity on the earth’s surface. The mining operations, which trace their origins back to the Bronze Age, have devoured entire mountains, valleys, and even entire villages that once thrived in the area. What remains is a landscape within a landscape, showcasing unearthed minerals that imbue the region’s soil and waters with an otherworldly, rainbow-like palette. While the colors may appear spectacular and beautiful, they serve as a grim reminder of the poisonous nature of these elements. Due to the mine’s leakages, the Rio Tinto river has become the most polluted river globally, exhibiting a terrifyingly acidic pH level of 1.5-2.2—equivalent to the acidity of acetic acid found in our stomachs. Strand’s aerial perspective unveils the cataclysmic consequences of human actions, leaving viewers absorbed by the indelible footprints of creation and destruction.

Hans Strand’s extraordinary body of work has not only earned him numerous international awards but has also garnered a global following. His photographs, published in esteemed photo and art magazines, serve as visual testaments to the delicate balance between humanity and nature. Strand’s deep concern for the environment and humanity’s relationship with landscapes has led him to publish ten books, often delving into themes related to the environment and our connection to nature. Not only celebrated for his artistic prowess, Strand is also recognized as a front figure for Hasselblad cameras, a testament to his influence and expertise in the field. Residing in Stockholm, Sweden, alongside his wife Carina and daughter Johanna, Strand’s artistic pursuits are complemented by his passion for classical music and his love for Burgundy wines. Through his lens, he continues to capture the essence of untamed beauty while reminding us of the irreversible consequences of human actions on our planet.