A behind-the-scenes look at the construction of UOW’s iAccelerate Centre.

Inspired by photographers like W Eugene Smith, Walker Evans and Lewis Hine, UOW photographer Paul Jones jumped at the opportunity to document the construction of the new iAccelerate Centre build.

Over some 18 months, the UOW photographer captured all aspects of the construction.

“I guess I’m part photojournalist and part sociologist,” Jones says. “I’ve always been interested in design, construction and architecture. But I think this essay is more a series of “work portraits” that emphasize the human contribution in building the iAccelerate Centre.”

“Personally I tried to convey a visible appreciation of the workers’ physical labor, giving them a degree of honour and admiration that is rarely bestowed on blue-collar workers.

“Once I explained the purpose of the photo project to the workers they also became collaborators on the project by taking me into their confidence, sharing their jokes and stories about their work. Often I came away from the building site feeling humbled and very privileged to having met these ordinary heroes.”

See all photos here.

Originally featured in The Stand. Story and photos by Paul Jones