Portland (Oregon) is typical of many cities. The urban renewal planners strive to steer the populace toward sounder growth policies. Citizens strive to renovate the old, preserve the old and provide visual contrast to the eventual decay. Today, as I walked along the tracks on the inner Eastside of Portland, I noticed the efforts to beautify, rebuild, cover over portions. On one side of the tracks were sprawled out ‘homeless’ types basking in the sun after a cold night. On the other side of the tracks were the hipsters frequenting the breweries and trendy cafes. Such contrasts have always existed and always will in Portland and most larger towns.
Very mild by other city’s blight, Portland is not hardcore impoverished or violent. It has its moments. But, Portland has its many positives too. Today, along the rails I found two that were worthy to record.
The mural was a pleasant addition to the tagging and decay a few feet away.
Oh and nature’s effort, right beside the mural, finished off nicely to the stark contrast on the otherside of the tracks.
the light in the last one is amazing.
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wow, the dark tree trunks against the masses of blossoms creates a beautiful, soft contrast. This is a really fine image, Switt! If your image is the worst Portland has to offer, you live in a fine city, indeed. I used to follow a woman from Portland on FB. She posted beautiful photos of the city as well as of her work with the homeless. None of it had the really gritty feel of NYC, Chicago… Nice post, Switt!
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Thank you. There is a bit of gritty, but one might attract unwanted attention attempting to capture it.
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I guessed your timidity. You could get by with it, you know. Lay that charming smile on, and nobody refuses Switt. 😉
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Well I paid for a couple of meals (or beverages) and let them be without intruding. When from afar they look animated and not smiling I just drive on. But thanks George for your confidence in me 🙂
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I have a dear friend living there. She posts the best stuff on FB!
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