Reflected here is the Mercure hotel - not a building with any architectural merit but it has a fine location - town centre by the town bridge and overlooking the river.
It has had a number of name changes, but sadly never a face lift. Not unless, that is you notice its reflection in the water on a still sunny day. I twisted it round and thought I had created a much more architecturally interesting and likeable building.
Many years ago, the hotel was the scene of a shocking murder when on an official exchange trip from our twin town in Bamburg, one of the visiting guests was shot dead in an unprovoked attack.
Today, the hotel houses the town's homeless people. They are being accommodated there by the council during the Covid-19 pandemic and given three meals a day. I do hope many of them will be able to transfer to proper accommodation when all this is over rather than being turfed back out on the streets.
Now that would be a transformation worth celebrating!
I love this. I am a big fan of reflections and this is quite striking. I, too, hope this pandemic will continue to expose unpalatable truths and show us how to lead more generous lives.
So poignant to read the history and present circumstance of the hotel, and I admire what you've done to create such an interesting image of it. If you hadn't explained it, I would have thought it was a major central feature of the town. It looks so interesting the way you've captured it in reflection.
This has a super artistic, abstract feel that I love; and your commentary makes it all the more wonderful! Like you, I hope the homeless will be able to transition to proper accommodation.
I'd like to thank you once again before I go. Your kindness, beautiful images, and well-written commentaries will always be remembered! ♥
fascinating, both the description and the photo. I've been wondering how homeless people used to being outdoors are liking some of these arrangements. Like the rest of us, there is a sort of imprisoned aspect to the situation.
I really like the warped sense of reality this has- a great abstract and even though the building is somewhat lackluster in its daily appearance, it has served you well for this shot. It seems like it has been given a noble purpose at this time so hopefully that will remain the case when the virus is under control.
As for the brooch- I think cameo pins were very popular during the era this painting was made. They are still somewhat popular among antique enthusiasts.
it sounds as though the mercure has very much benefited from your beautiful makeover! your reflection images are always so interesting and striking. very glad to hear that the homeless are being housed and that there will be changes for them ahead
I'd like to thank you once again before I go. Your kindness, beautiful images, and well-written commentaries will always be remembered! ♥
As for the brooch- I think cameo pins were very popular during the era this painting was made. They are still somewhat popular among antique enthusiasts.