I took some time to check out the opening of a new mall in downtown Kaiserslautern yesterday–the K in Lautern. As expected, there was lots of excitement. I was there for the vast majority of the day observing and drifting through the increasingly thick crowd while photographing. Even though it was packed, the shoppers (and security) kept a smooth, organized flow going.
With Kaiserslautern being a small city, the mall is a really big deal in terms of job opportunities and stimulating the local economy. Any form of change has its detractors, but I think it’s mostly those who don’t want the city to lose its old elements of charm to rampant capitalism; I’ve overheard a few comical rants on the street. I agree to a logical extent, but I also like positive change and new ideas. I don’t take sides really.
There are other places in the world which seem stuck in a certain period of time, and are beautiful just that way. In the end, I have a feeling the proud spirit of the city and that old charm will be left intact.
All images shot with the Olympus OM-D E-M5 using the Olympus M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 Pro lens.
2 Responses
Can’t wait to get back to Kaiserslautern and experience this mall!
Hurry!