German photographer Tom Hegen stands out for his unique ability to capture the relationship between humanity and the environment through aerial photography. His dramatic and abstract perspectives provide a broad view of our interaction with the planet, transforming complex landscapes into surreal, reflective images.
At a sensitive moment for lithium extraction in Chile and Bolivia, with criticism over privatization and exploitation that may affect the Salar de Uyuni, Hegen’s 2021 series The Lithium Series 1 has never been more relevant. He documents vast lithium mining operations in the Salar de Atacama, Chile. Lithium is extracted from salty groundwater that flows through a series of evaporation ponds. As the water evaporates, salts and minerals settle on the ground, increasing lithium concentration—a process that can take up to two years before lithium carbonate is produced.
In his portfolio, Hegen states:
“Our endless hunger for the latest electronic devices that are driven by lithium-ion batteries is growing the mineral crisis. Especially the transformation in electromobility is generating an unparalleled demand for lithium. For example, a smartphone battery contains two to three grams of lithium; an electric car needs about 20 to 30 kg of lithium. More than 50% of the world’s lithium resources occur in South America, in the lithium Triangle of Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. The Salar de Atacama salt flats in northern Chile contain more than a quarter of the world’s lithium supplies. The biggest lithium evaporation production site globally is even visible from space. The lithium-extraction field is situated south of the town of San Pedro de Atacama.”
These aerial images reveal surreal landscapes, where turquoise and yellow evaporation ponds stretch for kilometers, reflecting the growing demand for lithium, essential for electric vehicle and electronic device batteries. Hegen’s lithium work continues at The Lithium Series II in The Silver Peak Mine, Nevada, the only active lithium mine in North America.
In contrast with the modernity of lithium mining, the Floating Market (and others) Series transports the viewer to Banjarmasin’s floating markets, in Borneo. Through his lens, Hegen captures colorful boats exchanging fruits, vegetables, and spices, preserving centuries-old cultural traditions.
Tom Hegen’s work bridges two worlds: technological advancement and cultural-environmental preservation. While the Lithium Series warns about environmental challenges in the energy transition, the Floating Market Series reminds us of the importance of sustainable practices and preserving traditions that keep community identities alive worldwide.
