I am an artist and particularly notice
patterns and textures of life. I can feel blessed and happy even in
poor, chaotic environments that would make someone else frustrated
and angry. My eyes delight in discolored and cracking walls with paint splatters and
drips, graffiti, derelict doorways, shadows and stark light, crowded
busses and trains—all hold fascination for me.
The streets are alive with the
activities of man and I jump in the current, taking my photos, making paintings and drawings and constantly being inspired.
When I arrived in Quito, Ecuador from
Mexico, I had to adjust to cloudy weather and very high elevation.
Ecuador is home to some of the highest volcanoes and mountain peaks
in the world. Quito, the capital, has an altitude of around 9,000
feet, (3,000m). My first experiences were gritty and I was a bit
dismayed. But probably tired from travel and needing to adjust. As I dug deeper, more
gems appeared from the rough. The historical center is captivating with
centuries old architecture, massive basilicas and cobbled streets
crammed with shops. I melded in and took street photos.
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| A man at Catholic mass, listening to singing. |
A great museum experience was Capilla del Hombre (Chapel of Man), devoted to the work one artist: Oswaldo Guayasamin, (July 6, 1919 – March 10, 1999). master painter
and sculptor of Quechua and Mestizo heritage and Native of Quito.
I did not paint while in Quito for I
was in a hotel room and stayed five days. Now I am in Cuenca and will
be in the south of Ecuador for about two weeks so will resume
painting. Need to find an art supply store first!
See Steven Boone art
See Steven Boone art