If you happen to live in an historic area of a major European city, street artists are probably a common sight.
The area surrounding Antwerp cathedral does pull a rather unusual variety though: artists who go to great lengths trying to become a living copy of the countless statues that have graced this medieval part of town for centuries.
Most use body paint to blend in, but this rather uncommon couple made every effort to stand out.
Airbrushed in gold, they did not try to evoke yet another historic scene, but seemed quite satisfied to portray a tale of unconditional love.
While I just loved the concept of their act, I’ve had my share of street artists in front of my home door.
Imagine carrying partly torn grocery bags on your way home, only to find out that yet another busload of videotaping Japanese tourists is blocking your way passed the cathedral, giving you a determined “no pasaran” look. Having learned from passed experiences, I usually just go with the flow, blend in and start taking snapshots myself. I wonder, how often do you feel like you’re living in an amusement park?
This blog is not affiliated with or endorsed by the city of Antwerp, Belgium.
Peter,
I think you should just spray paint yourself and pose outside your doorstep with a contribution cup in front. You can make your own political statement: “Yes, life IS a carnival in Antwerp and you can pay my entrance to the party!”
Comment by V-Grrrl — August 30, 2007 @ 11:18 am
Oh well, luckily there’s also the upside of it all: sometimes you feel like you’re living in an amusement park.
Comment by Artinthepicture.com blog — August 30, 2007 @ 11:24 am
Wish it were that easy Veronica
I wouldn’t hesitate for a second if I had the chance to live in the green suburbia North of Antwerp once again. I live in a quiet building with a nice view, but although the non-stop historic downtown animation may look like fun, it has a tendency to get too much: I just long for a large garden and a dog.
@artinthepicture: thanks for commenting Bruno. Recently the amusement park value of downtown Antwerp has somewhat deteriorated, with some parts becoming a real obstacle course. Anyway, loved your site - I started browsing and stumbled upon Nighthawks by Edward Hopper, one of my favorites.
Comment by Peter — August 30, 2007 @ 11:55 am
Lol, I only just noticed you replied to my comment. Thanks so much for the nice comments on my site, that’s why I put in all the effort (next to the millions I make by selling prints ofcourse).
Comment by Bruno — September 7, 2007 @ 2:36 pm