Matt Van der Velde, a photographer based in Ottawa, Canada specializes in architecture, fine-art, and event photography. Educated at Brock University in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology, Van der Velde is best known for his work touring internationally with Playboy’s 50th Anniversary Playmate and DJ, Colleen Shannon. His interest in the history and evolution of mental health treatment arose from his experience as an infantry soldier in the Canadian Forces and his personal struggles with depression and PTSD. He has always had a curiosity for documenting places hidden from society, and understands the historic and architectural value in America’s abandoned State Hospital and Psychiatric facilities. Partner that with an insatiable interest in history and you have the motivation and inspiration behind Abandoned Asylums.