Man Walking

I was in Seville on a sunny February day several years ago. I think it was my last day there and I wandered the streets, already feeling nostalgic for this vibrant place that held so much fascination for me. I remember walking down a twisting, narrow alley and being struck by the colors and charm of a simple neighborhood grocery store. Bright, ripe fruit on display and the bold typography of the signs, in Spanish of course, seemed a good subject for a photo. This guy happened to be walking by. I rarely photograph strangers — I don’t know how to do that without invading their privacy — but this guy seemed not to notice. And now he’s the basis for this painting, striding confidently, I’d say, into the morning light.