We decided today to go out for breakfast in Winchester followed by a walk around the town. A worker coming out of a restaurant and lining up empty beer casks on the pavement passed the time of day and then, almost immediately I heard a voice say '"A load of drunkards in Winchester." I protested mildly and then noticed that the speaker was picking up litter from the pavement with a stick.
He looked a happy sort of fellow so I asked if he would like to have his portrait taken and explained my strangers' portrait project. He readily agreed and in reply to my introduction, told me he was called Michael. I took two shots in slightly different locations.
I showed Michael the photos on the camera rear screen and offered to send a photo by email but he explained he did not have internet. He was happy for me to have the photos and did not mind not having them himself. He went on to say that he is a 'solo litter picker' and works voluntarily around the town, mostly on the days, such as Sunday, when the paid employees do not work. He buys his litter pick-up sticks from Poundland and said he has already worn out a few.
Other than this voluntary 'citizenship' work, Michael likes making abstract art. He said he uses anything e.g. wax, gouache, and works on anything e.g. cloth, paper, and his friends are surprised that he always produces a piece of abstract art which is different from his existing work.
I thanked Michael for the photos and his story and we parted company. I felt pleased to have met him and he straightaway carried on clearing up the street.
Diana, having been out of portraiture because of Ray being unwell, I had forgotten how interesting and very different are the people I meet. I have one more to post from today!
Diana, having been out of portraiture because of Ray being unwell, I had forgotten how interesting and very different are the people I meet. I have one more to post from today!
Diane, thank you for your comments. I must admit that I do often change my first draft and perhaps also, I inherited my writing style from my dad?!