One of the unlikely elements abroad I've grown fond of "discovering" or seeking out and photographing is graffiti. Stencil graffiti in particular. Who isn't a fan of Britain's Banksy, for example? I love the artistry, the whimsy, the popularity of making a piece an opportunity for social commentary. Tagging, as you also see in this image, is (unfortunately) perhaps a more common form of graffiti. That said, stenciling seems to consistently transcend the trash (like tagging) and elevate "street art" to the real thing. Love it.Your comments on this image are welcome, and encouraged! And a question for the photographer - gabricabri - if s/he is so inclined: Is there anything special about this moment, day, trip, or place beyond what you've shared on Flickr that you'd like to add or comment on here? Along with other vivaca visitors, I would love to know more!
Location: Paris, France ★
Photo courtesy of gabricabri
ME TOO! I love looking to see what each country's graffiti looks like! I loved Austrias!
ReplyDeleteI (being a she by the way) have been interested in graffiti in general and stencil in particular for many years, since I had actively been stenciling in Paris (where I have always lived) at the end of the 80s. I love to take long walks in Paris and shoot everything that catches my eye. This particular picture was taken not far from the university where I teach; I had seized the opportunity of a little spare time and sunshine to stroll around the Mouffetard area, which is a place of choice for street artists. I took this picture because I love rainbows, and also the interaction between stencil and tag: it shows us the city is alive and not only made of grey walls.
ReplyDeleteI also have to add that this stencil is the work of Mosko & Associés, a well-know Parisian duo of stencil artists.
ReplyDeleteThat's fantastic, Gabri. I hate tagging on its own, but it is very interesting here as the tags intersect with the rainbow and the stencil to create a unique (whole) piece. You're lucky to live, work, and stencil in Paris! Such a vibrant and vibrantly artistic city. My favorite stencils - of my travels thus far - are from Napoli, Venezia, Budapest, and Pecs (also Hungary). We also have some great pieces here in the San Francisco Bay Area. I'd love to see a Banksy in person though, one day.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the additional note on the Mosko & Associés. I'd not heard of them before. I will watch for their work when I am in Paris next; which I hope will be the spring of 2010. I went to Paris last in 2005 for my 30th birthday, and I figure, what better place to celebrate all my future 5-year milestone anniversaires, right?
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