If you stand in front of Bernardo de Irigoyen’s mausoleum in Recoleta Cemetery, you’ll see two solemn statues, the one on the left bearing a feathery palm branch. Turn 180 degrees and she’s still before you, but in hazier form, drifting, otherworldly. I like to think that this reflected spectre has crossed over to keep an eye on the opposite tomb – a kind of cemetery neighbourhood watch. The title of this colour shot (I know, it almost looks black and white) is Ghost & candelabra.
I was born in Montreal in 1967, grew up in England and live between London and Buenos Aires. Like many, I came to Buenos Aires to dance tango and fell under the spell of this city where strangers talk to you, tango music seeps on to the streets and the ornate crumbling buildings speak of grander times. I love writing and crafting words – I've worked as a sub-editor for more than 20 years – and taking photographs.
This may be my favorite. Oh, and that it is in color! Feels though it is eternally raining.
I don’t know how the photo came to be so stripped of colour – a grey day, the drab interior, her sombre presence, I suppose. Had a good gaze at this statue again yesterday and she does look sad, so an eternal rain is fitting. Glad you like her.
This is such an amazing photo! I love the way the candleabra starts strong at the frame and just guides your eye into the softness of the ghost.
Can hear your voice in your words. I wish you & Bonnie were still here in Buenos Aires! Thank you for helping me to see why this shot works so well.