Paris When It Drizzles - Part III

The Soul of a City

I am a true believer in public art, of paintings and funky installations. A city that does not encourage art is a city without a soul. In the city of Pittsburgh, public art is found in installations on empty* city lots, the Sprout Fund murals and in the inspiration of local residents. They are beautiful displays that attempt to capture the essence of a neighborhood and reflect the soul the city.

To see this kind of art in Paris, one must look up and past the grand buildings, magnificent fountains and venerated statues. One must wander the side streets of seedy and shady neighborhoods, peer into fountains and look down at the sidewalk once in a while. The payoff is discovering that this staid city has an incredible sense of whimsy. You only have to take a moment to look for it.

*Select "Magnolias for Pittsburgh" from the drop down menu.

Bastille - Bird Graffiti


Bastille - Cat


Bastille - Face


Bastille - Fish


Bastille - Runner


Bastille - Village Mural


Latin Quarter - Dancers


Latin Quarter - Zebras


Les Halles - Man & Zebra


Les Halles - Giraffe


Les Halles - Funky Mural



Saint Germain des Pres - Mural


Marais - Mosaic Cow


Gare de Lyon (Bastille) - Boats