Some Thoughts

Walking around these past few weeks, and taking a look at surrounds Valparaiso offers many things have come to mind. I head home in a few weeks after nearly one year and half out of the country. The streets, sounds and sights, present a bounty of elements - many of which we simply do not have in Canada. The labrynth of streets, pathways and passages that always seem to trickle upon a new piece or art/graffiti baffles me still to this day. I must say that the way this culture has chosen to present itself is unique and the art certainly brings out and seems to evokes all the senses. The warmth from all the surrounding colours is subliminally comfortable - and I sure am going to miss it. The aesthetics, paintings, graffiti, scultures and music bring this city to life. While it isn't the richest of cities in Chile - it certainly is rich with culture... and it is obvious by the vibe the city feeds out.

The Colourful House Syndrome

Today wandering the streets - a simularity struck me. Let us start off with a picture of Valparaiso.
Bright, colourful, vibrant and alive. A port city by nature, with a rich cultural history, this city is full of life. The colours are remarkably distinctive from many other places in the world... except for one (maybe 2 others ontop San Francisco + La Boca, Buenos Aires)!
Now let's take a look at a picture of one of our own landmark cities: St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.
St. John's is equally as bright and colorful, and well - a port city!
Can any simularities be drawn as to why? While it may seem obvious that perhaps being on portside, there would be a need for visibility from the water. But I believe it goes a bit deeper. It might be that perhaps it is a search for tourists, a way to make a name for themselves? Both hard working class communities - seems as though a way to make a name for themselves; an expression of sorts. This could be the very definition of art in itself. My history might be a bit shady, but to the best of my recollection both cities have been hit at various times by economic turmoil. Perhaps this is a way of recovering by lifting spirits - or lifting them before sailors set out to sea. Perhaps this is the first thing other boats from foreign countries would see when landing from lands far away; a warm welcome? Whatever the exact, or collection of, reasons may be; maybe our countries are not as different as we had thought. Maybe there are some underlying artistic routes that keep people bonded. Stay tuned!