
David has always enjoyed exploring the streets of Buenos Aires and never ceases to experience the city as surprising and inspiring. There is a romantic sense of stepping back in time, into a wonderfully eclectic, creative era that represents the essence of what Onsite Gallery offers in Cape Town.
The BA days begin slowly and siesta time is valued, but when the heat of the day dissipates and later as the lights come on, the city transforms into a cosmopolitan hub of loud local music, with impromptu drama-filled tango demonstrations and plenty of culinary delights to be savoured.
The locals are friendly, laid-back and warmly welcoming to visitors. The city boasts a host of wonderful restaurants and outdoor ‘al fresco’ dining options situated along the winding, cobbled streets. People-watching at these popular spots might well be regarded a national pastime.
The Argentine architecture demands attention and respect for its sheer size and beauty, like a voluptuous prima donna opera singer that defies you to ignore her. Every building is adorned with its own unique entrance, exuding character and presence. Many of the building’s exteriors are fatigued by the elements into a fabulously shabby, yet proudly vibrant style.
The variation of architectural styles throughout the city environs invites further investigation into the shady inner sanctums, revealing aspects of the city’s cultural past. ‘Proud’ is an understatement for these wonderful architectural monuments that, even in their shabbiness, proclaim themselves to be worthy of admiration and appreciation.
One of the most striking elements of the architecture has to be the splendidly over-sized doorways that adorn many of the original buildings. They certainly make a statement with their elongated door panels and carved stone surrounds. Some are painted in rich hues of greens and pinks, while others have been allowed to age gracefully unadorned, other than the marvellous metalwork of the handles and large studs embedded in the wood.
Here are a few examples that David discovered during his wanderings: