Solitary Bicycle in Barceloneta, Barcelona

Historical narrative

There may be “Nine Million Bicycles” in Beijing according to Katie Melua’s song, but Steve found only one that morning in 2010 as he walked Carrer de Sant Miquel in La Barceloneta, Barcelona, Spain. The scene grabbed him. Perhaps it was the unusual stillness, with no people or cars to distract from the quiet street, combined with the salty Mediterranean air mingling with frying seafood, warm pavement, and the faint earthy scent of the old fishing quarter. Tall, closely packed buildings rise directly from the narrow, curving cobblestone street, their weathered stucco facades glowing in warm ochres, golds, oranges, and creams. Ornate iron balconies, barred windows, wooden doors, exposed pipes, and colorful hanging laundry create layers of texture and personality. A solitary bicycle rests against the wall as sunlight and deep shadows animate the passage, evoking the timeless character of a Mediterranean neighborhood.

Oil

© Stephen B. Hales — All Rights Reserved