Sunday, 20 October 2013

Lions etc.

Some parts of Venice are awash with tourists and I am so impressed by how courteous and friendly the Venetians are in the face of such an onslaught of visitors. During the daytime St Marks Square is a throng of people like myself attached to a camera - or a phone or pad.
The images that we take are recognised the world over.
Which hasn't stopped me taking them!
The cafe orchestras compete for attention.
And customers look suitably soigné.
But I like it best in the evening when the crowds have dispersed. Under pools of light the bands still play and their music floats into the inky darkness of the square.
The arcade shops display expensive goods and outrageously overworked glassware.
But many parts of the city are quiet and undisturbed. I like the Arsenale area,
the site of my favourite Venetian lion.

The last time I was in Venice I was collecting information for a mural and I tucked myself in beside him at the end of the canvas.


There are certainly plenty of lions to choose from
and beautiful decorative details to discover
all over the city.










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9 comments:

  1. Tom Stephenson20 October 2013 at 15:14

    They are so courteous because they are not Venetians. They come over from the Venato mainland to milk the tourists.

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    1. Share my Garden24 October 2013 at 08:26

      Oh, Tom, I know that you're right - mostly! But we were staying in the Ospidale area, a bit off the tourist track, and I had some lovely conversations with the locals.

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  2. Connie20 October 2013 at 16:49

    I like your lion. He has a sweet face.

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    1. Share my Garden24 October 2013 at 08:29

      Yes, he looks a very gentle lion. He's got an, "I won't bite - honestly!' sort of face.

      Delete
  3. WendyMcLeodMacKnight21 October 2013 at 03:51

    I love these pictures - I have never been to Venice and am anxious to go! YOur lion is lovely! I did not know you were such a talented artist!

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    Replies
    1. Share my Garden24 October 2013 at 08:34

      Venice is a must see and I'm glad you like 'MY' lion! I used to work as an illustrator and the studies that I was making last time I was in Venice, seventeen years ago, were for a cruise ship.

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  4. Daniel Efosa Uyi21 October 2013 at 07:46

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  5. Alex aus dem Gwundergarten21 October 2013 at 09:14

    Lovely. But when you love Venice with less people, you should see it in winter. It's mystical and magical at the same time. Have a great week.
    Alex

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  6. Share my Garden24 October 2013 at 08:38

    What a great thought, Alex. I've been in the spring, summer and autumn so it makes sense to return next in the wintertime.

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