Christopher Jonassen is a Norwegian photographer whose latest book examines the incredible universe of scratches found on the bottoms of frying pans. He shoots the familiar kitchen tools against a black background, transforming them into images of planetary ruin or collapse. I spoke with him via email.
GOOD: When did you first find one of these and say, "That looks like something I want to photograph?"
Christopher Jonassen: When I was studying abroad in Australia, I lived in a cheap share house with some friends and the cooking utensils were banged up in a pretty bad way. It fascinated me to see how everyday life was wearing out the metal of the frying pans, one tiny scratch at a time.
GOOD: They look more like celestial objects than cooking utensils.
Jonassen: Yes, this is part of the idea, to create a link between the tiny marks we leave behind everyday to the enormous impact this adds up to over time. I am very concerned about the way we are treating this planet. Also, I think its important to notice the beauty in the small things we surround ourselves with everyday.
GOOD: How did you go about collecting pans?
Jonassen: I asked my friends and family, digging around in cellars and in attics. It was surprising to see how many frying pans are being stored after they are no longer usable for cooking. Why would anyone do that? I got access to the winter storage of cooking supplies for the local scouts. Those where probably the best ones. They bring out big iron pans and put them directly into open fire out in the woods. Heavy iron pans, burnt black and scraped with knives.
GOOD: So would you ever use them to cook?
Jonassen: I wouldn't recommend using these pans for cooking. When I do cook, I cook with raw and fresh ingredients. I think this is key for a healthy diet. And I try to buy local whenever it's possible.
All photographs courtesy of Christopher Jonassen (via FNS)















People waiting to be interviewed.Image via
Business professionals in the workplace.Image via
The resume of a new employee.Image via
'The Office.' 
A woman blocks the camera shotCanva
A woman rolls her eyesCanva
An angry woman looks off-cameraCanva
Two young women packing up for collegeCanva
Father and daughter hugCanva
A father and young daughter play together at the beachCanva
A father and daughter play around next to a pierCanva
A man hands over a debt collection noticeCanva
A woman holds a cell phoneCanva
A woman laughs at her cell phone
A toddler crawls towards his sisterCanva
Toddlers run down the streetCanva
A young child smiles at his baby sisterCanva
HR woman looks at resumesCanva
Woman at works looks off into distanceCanva
Good job gif
Groom kisses the bride on the foreheadCanva
A young woman gives a toast at a weddingCanva