Whenever I come across a mural, a piece of graffiti, or a striking illustration on a wall, I often wonder whether it’s fair, or even ethical, to use someone else’s work to enhance the appeal of the photograph I’m about to take. After all, the person who created it did so with the intention of showcasing their talent, their message, or their art to as many people as possible, and the photographer can serve as a channel to amplify that reach and present the work to a broader audience. But despite this potential symbiosis between street artist and photographer, I can’t help but feel a small pang of guilt.
Putting that aside, I have to admit I feel a deep admiration for these spontaneous and selfless acts of artistic expression, especially those with a high degree of creativity or aesthetic value, like the illustration I’m sharing today. It’s remarkable to me that someone would invest their time and talent into something so ephemeral, something born without an owner, without financial return. It’s pure generosity, a heartfelt desire to share a passion without expecting anything in return.
This piece is located at the former “American Base of Bares,” which is now in a state of complete disrepair. It appears on one of the buildings that used to house the engine room, garage, heating system, and communications center. The artwork reminds me, though I’m not sure why, of the animated series Ulysses 31, a French-Japanese co-production I used to watch as a child. I don’t know who the artist is, but the work has presence, personality, and style. I really like it, and I wish there were more pieces like this around my area. Maybe someday the artist will surprise us again with a new creation, and if so, I’ll be more than happy to share it with all of you.
