Eugène Atget

I can't recall the first time I saw a photo by Eugène Atget, but all I know is that his work is remarkable. In 2012, MoMA hosted a wonderful exhibition on select photos by Atget and I was very eager to see his photos in person. Atget worked toward the end of the 19th century and used photographic techniques that were unusual for his time, specifically his snapshot quality of daily life in Paris and of various French gardens, including Versailles. Personally, I continue to be inspired and captivated by his work and feel connected to the timeless quality of his photos. 

Marché Aux Puces

Marché Aux Puces in English means 'flea market' and is actually where the term originated. Towards the end of the 19th century Parisians would head to the North side of the city to sell anything they wanted to. Hence, old household items, sometimes with actual fleas 'puces', were sold and traded at the market place, which has grown to international fame. 

Les Puces is actually a collection of streets and markets that break off into disorganized alleys of jumbled stalls and vendor booths. Us early birds were actually dismayed to discover that the stalls and stores actually opened later than it's American counter-parts (even with thorough planning). I guess the French style of taking things slow and easy also applies to running antique markets. 

In all honesty, the Les Puces were a bit of a disappointment. Unless your an interior designer, with clients with deep pockets, there's not much for an individual tourist. Our luggage was already crammed full with other goods for the trip home and the knock-off clothing market on the parameter of the antique section was sketchy and dirty. I am still happy to say we went and have the frame of knowledge of what was there. My advice when visiting, unless your in the market for a crystal chandelier, stay closer to the center of the city.

Frank Lloyd Wright's Home and Studio

One of the many benefits of living in Oak Park, IL is that I'm lucky to live around many historical and fascinating landmarks. One particular place is the home and studio of architect and designer Frank Lloyd Wright. Constructed in the late 19th century, his home was his first building he worked on as an architect. He would make additions and rework rooms like a drawing, re-configuring spaces to accommodate himself, his wife and their six children (with only one bathroom). The house is run by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust that oversees many other Wright buildings around Chicagoland. John and I were able to see the house on a day with free admission and freshly decorated for Christmas. Photos were not allowed inside, but of the photos I did get, you can sense the development of a distinctive architectural style that defined Wright.