The trains hummed us into Chicago and sang us into a trance while we traced its streets. It was too quick of a trip but one of necessity. My eyes were focused on the need to do and so, in squinting, the city’s background bled into ink. The rain, the fog, the curving steel haze; all shining surfaces lit from within.
We missed our return train despite our best intentions, despite having arrived at what we thought was an hour ahead. Not wanting to simply wait, we decided to roam.
I like Chicago, I always have. I remember my Mom’s reassuring hand on my shoulder as I peered into the Thorne Miniature rooms at the Chicago Institute when I was about ten or so. And here she was at my side once more, her presence as loving as always. “Take the photo,” she encouraged. I did so over and over, blinking back to stay present. To be with her and on my own, grateful for both. Then as now, our gazes eventually lifted upwards. It is that kind of town.
My bag was heavy and I shifted it from shoulder to shoulder. Walking on, we were stuck in the Loop. But the city’s buoyant energy pushed back against the clouds, a mid-western expansiveness snaking between the buildings like the L above. We tucked into a coffee shop and from our perch behind a plate glass window watched the crowds. We exchanged gossipy guesses as to what each individual story might be, printed on the inside in that indigo blue.
My Mom slowly flipped the pages of a magazine as the train rolled out of the station, through the tunnels pummeled with commuters until Chicago pulled away. I gazed out the window, tired but content, as the night fell to black. My heart echoed the wheels on the tracks…thump thump…bump bump…thump thump…bump bump…how wonderful it had been to be in a big city again.
I am going to mix in some of the stories that I photographed while in the States with my regular Provence-y business until my camera situation is worked out…I hope that you will stay with me…
And you still have time to enter in the giveaway for Ann Mah’s wonderful book, “Mastering the Art of French Eating” – just leave a comment below or email me at robinsonheather (at ) yahoo.com to express your interest. Thank you for all of the wonderful responses so far! A winner will be announced next Tuesday.
Have a fantastic weekend…
Ooooh…I had a similar experience at the National Art Gallery in DC when I was little…I had just seen my first Monet and my Mom had to literally pull me away!! And yep, that is her next to me in the reflection…I like Dave Chihuly's work but that is why I chose that photo for sure. 🙂
During the summer, my brother was in Chicago for a couple of weeks for business matters. He came back completely enthusiastic. "Those elegant, tall buildings and the jazzbars" It seems he did not get much sleep…
(Oh, by the way I also liked your Detroit Photos from some time ago a lot. )
Yes! That Heather point of view travels so well. I think I would know these were your photos if I saw them out of context, even though they aren't of the paths you usually take us down. And I love this look at Chicago. I've been in and out several times – but always on business for Nordstrom. So other than inside of malls and stores, hotels and a few restaurants I have yet to really experience the Windy City. Need to remedy that.
Thanks for taking us along on your wanderings. It's always a treat! XOXO
We have lived near Chicago for many years now. Enjoy most every visit. Recently the Chicago Architecture Foundation did their annual Chicago Open House. A free and worthwhile event. I really like the texture of the water on the floor. You picture Chicago in a good way.
I agree with Rowan – I can feel your style even with a polar opposite subject matter! You captured it alright – maybe your feel for the big city hasn't left you (after all those years in NYC)! I don't know about you, but I'm waaaaaaay happier where I am now! But love these pics – love the last one and the view through the train window and all of the angles….lovely!
Fabulous photographs, Heather…I have never been to Chicago but I know I would love it…I'm a true City Lover!
Happy Weekend xx
I would love to enter the giveaway as I keep meaning to get the book! Thanks Heather
I absolutely adore Chicago. I 'be been twice but would go visit every time we fly to the US, if I could.
Hi Heather,
Love your new set of images! Very urban and geometrical and graphic. I like the way you style your photos with the off centre grouping of shapes. A different feel to the ones from Provence, but they have your touch nonetheless! Rhythmic wording, very nice partner to these images!
Cheers,
Deb C – Melbourne.
I love Chicago, great to see it though your eyes, similar shots, but a lot more metal! The Art Institute is one of my favorite stops.