Juan 45/100 Juan approached me as I leaned against the wall outside a club in NYC, waiting for my friends. He commented that I ought to smile. We struck up quite a conversation and he was happy to have his photo taken for the project. Juan's conversation space was fairly 'in your face' so I captured him that way, despite the facial distortion from the lens. He's apparently been featured in a book about the homeless in NYC in recent years. Son of a Cuban mother and American father, Juan was born and raised in Brooklyn. He did two tours in Viet Nam and is currently homeless. His joy and humour illustrated for me the strength and endurance of the human spirit. He was utterly charming, regaling me with stories of being left in a grocery store overnight and after a 10-15 min. conversation, he continued on down the street looking for pop tins in the garbage cans.
Rob 46/100 I met Rob today on the shores of Lake Erie as he prepped his gear to go para-sailing. It was really interesting to see him lay out his kite and finally get airborne. It was clear from the smile on his face and the enthusiasm with which he explained the procedure that this is truly a passion. Happy sailing!
The Rug Lady 47/100 I met Stephanie aka The Rug Lady at the Brewery Market in Halifax during my Thanksgiving trip home. Stephanie restores antique rugs and quilts/textiles for people all over North America. The rug behind her was simply amazing. We talked textiles and she happily agreed to be Stranger #47.
