#resound11 Prompt 16: Ordinary Extraordinary
Sometimes the most ordinary, mundane things can turn into extraordinary moments. What was one of your most extraordinary ordinary moments this year?
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street art
I feel lucky growing up in a city with street art found in almost every corner. Being a big city kid, I’m used to this being a part of the normal landscape, but as I’ve gotten older I try not to take this for granted. From large pieces that scale entire buildings to tiny stencil work on street corners. I respect art in every form. And being mindful of this, it helps me to stay alert and be very, very observant of my surroundings.
JR is a Parisian photographer/artist who uses ordinary B/W portraits to create massive pieces on buildings. The result stops you on your tracks. Literally. I wasn’t familiar with his work until I saw one of his pieces in person during a walking tour at CicLAvia earlier this year. The walking tour guide was busy talking about the architecture, the history of DTLA’s Theatre District — all interesting & awesome of course. But only two out of about twenty of us bothered to stop to take a shot of this piece above. I was so enamored by the size and the image. It was simple. It looks like anyone’s grandma… well, my grandma(s) in particular. And her facial expression and gesture of opening her eyes — spoke to me at that moment; like a reminder to me to stay alert.
Focus. Eyes open, little girl. Eyes open.
Mind was kinda blown a bit. Thanks, JR.
