The Mona Lisa was OK if you like looking at art behind six inches of plexiglass in a high school gym with really nice floors (Take a look if you don't believe me) but what really struck me about Paris was all of the great street art! Here's Charleston's own Shephard Fairey (and a bunch of others!).
Most people go to Paris for the romance and delicious food. Or they go for the centuries-old art and architecture. I love Paris for all of that but what intrigues me the most about Paris is the embarrassment of riches when it comes to street art. A keen eye is always watched over by Space Invader... or Dig Dug. Even Shephard Fairey, creator of the now immortal Obama Hope poster, has works on display with Andre the Giant.
This photograph was captured with a Nikon D90.
Most French cities have a Rue de la Soif but you'll never see it written on a street sign. It literally means "thirsty street" and is more of description of the clientele and businesses than it is a proper name.
If you are on the Left Bank in Paris and somebody directs you to a restaurant or bar on Rue de la Soif, head over to Rue Guisarde. It only stretches one long block so it's tricky to find the first time but you'll know it when you see it! As a bonus, you'll also find a little art project by Invader on the wall at the entrance to the "Rue."
This photograph was captured with an iPhone 4 and edited in Adobe Lightroom.
There is something eerily familiar when you stumble upon the famed Moulin Rouge in Paris.
From the outside, it's exactly what you'd expect other than it's on a very busy street and across from a Metro stop.
I'd like to tell you it's exactly what you'd expect from the inside, as well, but I can't. Sadly, it wasn't on the agenda.
This photograph was captured with a Nikon D90.