Rural Lands by Chris Rusanowsky

Public Project

Rural Lands

Copyright Chris Rusanowsky 2025

Updated Jan 2025

Topics Spotlight

Summary

Once was...

This series documents the evolving face of rural America, focusing on North Texas. Small farmlands are being overtaken by zoning changes, giving way to sprawling suburbs filled with identical fast-food chains, hotels, and Walmarts that mirror those seen across the nation. The unique charm and identity of small towns fade away, much like an old steer left to pass in a forgotten pasture.Local landmarks, like the corner gas station once bustling with regulars grabbing gas, breakfast burritos, and catching up with friends, are losing their community roots. The man at the church who faithfully waves to passing motorists each morning can no longer see the street, his view obstructed by a strip mall.This is the reality of today’s rural towns: their character and close-knit community spirit sacrificed to the relentless march of capitalism and mass development. Their future seems bound to a corporate wrecking ball, leaving behind a hollowed-out version of what once was.

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Chris Rusanowsky

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