photographing trains in eastern europe - the highest form of the craft

Several years ago I met a local graffiti writer who proudly stated that 'bombing trains is the highest form of his craft'. Train bombing isn’t just about the art—it’s a calculated process, an obsession that drives graffiti writers worldwide.

It all starts with scouting the yards, tracing entry points, and slipping past security undetected. But beyond the thrill, there’s a certain beauty to it. Writers romanticize the process—the stillness prior to the first outlines, the distant clatter of steel against steel, the scent of oil, rusted metal, and diesel fumes. It’s more than just bombing—it’s an obsession.

The graffiti scene in Bulgaria is strong. With an aging railway system, and ridiculous cleaning protocols, painted trains can remain up for months—hell, even years—turning them into moving galleries. The mix of Soviet RVR locomotives and modern carriages provides a unique canvas, making Bulgaria a hotspot for both local and international artists.

All of the photographs were taken on 35mm Kodak Color Plus film with a Canon SureShot point-and-shoot camera.

The location: Gorna Oryahovitsa.