There was a little convo a few posts ago on graffiti, the good vs. the bad, and its ability to, when bad, ruin a fabled or sacred location. So let's focus on the good graf. The kind you feel lucky to have discovered, the sort that makes you smile and want to snap a picture. A picture like this one of a YZ collage from her Village Popincourt series, in Paris.
Check out videos on Still Alive - one of YZ's many projects - here.
On my last trip to Paris this spring, I noticed these two cats in the strangest spots. I began to feel like I was on a treasure hunt, seeking them out to shoot like a paparazzi possessed. Locals know them well. As I was taking a picture of the pair on an old, weathered wooden door, a Parisian gentleman stopped and spontaneously directed me to a place nearby where there was an even larger, life-size Leo & Pipo collage. I thanked him and set out in search of it, but never found it. And on my last day in Paris, just strolling about town and enjoying being free of my heavy camera gear, I stumbled upon the most wonderful Leo & Pipo paste-up on the narrow side of a freshly painted lavender storefront. I was so bummed not to have the ability to photograph it, but no matter. It was instantly burned into my memory bank, where I look in on it and enjoy it, often.
Your comments on this image are welcome, and encouraged! And a question for the photographer - Brin d'Amour - 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 Brin d'Amour
I dig it!
ReplyDeleteI love graf like that. I think I'm going to write a new journal about graf now. Thank you for the inspiration.
Do you what part of the city the above graf is in? Where are the best places in Paris to see wall art? I thought the Republique had some great murals.
Fantastique!
ReplyDeleteI believe YZ's Village Popincourt series is (or was) actually posted in the Village Popincourt, which is in the 11th arrondissement (the République) between the Oberkampf and Parmentier metro stops.
You can find a map of the little area, here:
http://www.villagepopincourt.com/plan.html
I'm not sure where the 'best' places are in Paris to see great graffiti. I've wandered all over the city without any real regard for where I'm wandering, and have found interesting street art everywhere. You just have to keep your eyes peeled!
Here is a link to the graf wall in Paris I saw in the Republique.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.flickr.com/photos/3gtravel/4353423782/in/set-72157623425284526/
That's quite a mural.
ReplyDelete