Rico X: Capturing Urban Landscapes from the Cockpit

**Rico X: Capturing Urban Landscapes from the Cockpit**

In a unique convergence of profession and passion, airline pilot Rico X. has turned his cockpit view into an artistic endeavor, photographing cities around the globe at night in his project titled "Who Left the Bloody Lights On?" This endeavor not only highlights the beauty and vibrancy of urban landscapes but also raises critical questions about energy consumption and the rapid growth of consumerism.

Rico X., a 39-year-old pilot based in Dubai and originally from South London, embarked on his aviation career at the age of 18. His project allows him to leverage his vantage point at 35,000 feet to capture the intricate and often stark contrasts of city life as it unfolds beneath him. According to Rico, the title of his project emerged from a casual remark made during nighttime flights, which transformed into a profound commentary on humanity's relationship with energy consumption. "We’ve lit the planet like a showroom in parts," he reflects, drawing attention to the illuminated office buildings that remain lit late into the night, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of energy use in urban centers.

The significance of Rico's work extends beyond mere aesthetics; it serves as a visual narrative that chronicles the interplay between modern development and environmental sustainability. As he flies over metropolises, he observes not only the sprawling urban landscapes but also the encroachment of urban development into natural spaces, which poses a threat to biodiversity. This duality of beauty and ominous implications informs his photographic perspective, prompting viewers to contemplate the societal implications of their illuminated cities.

Rico's approach involves meticulous preparation: he waits for optimal weather conditions and carefully positions his camera to avoid reflections from the cockpit. His dedication to authenticity and depth in his work is evident, as he revisits locations over years to capture the evolution of urban life. He notes that the night economy, which includes essential services that operate after dark, is vital to the functioning of these urban environments. "While we sleep, the night economy that supports our whole existence comes to life in the form of deliveries and drivers," he explains, illuminating the hidden labor that fuels cities.

The project has also enabled Rico to connect with the Kamoinge Collective, a renowned Black photography group in the United States, where he has become one of the first non-U.S.-based members. He describes this experience as transformative, allowing him to learn from influential figures such as Eli Reed and Jamel Shabazz. Through these interactions, Rico aims to challenge historical depictions of Black and Brown communities in photography, creating a more nuanced and equitable representation.

As he continues to expand his portfolio, Rico aspires to photograph all major cities worldwide, planning flights that allow him to broaden the scope of his project. He assures those concerned about safety during his flights that the cockpit is always staffed with a minimum of two pilots, ensuring that he can focus on his artistic vision without compromising safety.

Rico X.'s photography offers a unique lens through which to view urban landscapes, presenting them as living entities pulsating with energy and ambition. From the chaotic sprawl of cities like Chicago and Dubai to the serene isolation of darkness over vast areas of Africa and Australia, his work illustrates a world that is at once beautiful and fraught with challenges. As he describes, "From up high, cities look like living circuits, pulsing, expanding, sometimes elegant, sometimes chaotic," compelling viewers to reflect on their own interactions with the urban environments they inhabit.

As discussions around sustainability and energy consumption grow increasingly urgent, Rico X.'s artistic endeavors serve as a timely reminder of the intricate balance between urban growth and environmental stewardship. His project not only captures the aesthetic allure of cities illuminated against the night sky but also invites a broader conversation about the future of urban living in an era of heightened environmental awareness.