Lens-Artists Challenge #360: Found at the Fair/ Market
Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer said, “Curves are the essence of my work because they are the essence of Brazil, pure and simple.” Although he did not design the Mercado Central in my hometown of Fortaleza, one can easily see and feel the essence of Brazil in that five-story mega shopping center.
When Ann-Christine set this week’s Lens-Artists Challenge, my first thought went right back to my roots. She wrote, “It is the joy of an abundance of fruit and vegetables, flowers, people… And often everything for sale is elaborately exposed.” Yes, the Mercado Central has all of that and more. I highly encourage you to look at her post. How are you going to respond to the challenge?
You will not find brand names there, of course. The entire Mercado is nothing but artisans and their craft. Anything from shoes with rubber soles made of discarded tires to apparel using local yarn and household items, and local food can be found there. Everything is one of a kind.
Whenever one goes to Fortaleza, this is a must-visit place. Even locals make time to go there to get some unique items for their home, friends, or relatives. Located right next to Fortaleza’s Metropolitan Cathedral, the Mercado Central has its parking area. In addition to shops selling a wide variety of goods with a local flavor or twist, one can also find restaurants and eateries featuring the local cuisine. It is truly a one-stop shop for everything.
You can even watch an artisan create lace right before your eyes.
What an incredible challenge John gave us last week. I loved how you approached the theme, sharing your beautiful photos. I’m sure you will provide us with excellent responses to Ann-Christine’s challenge. Don’t forget to use the “lens-artists” hashtag when creating your post so we can easily find it in the Reader.
Next week, Sofia returns with a new challenge. It will go live at noon EST in the USA. Tune in to find out more about the challenge then. Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history.
That is the story behind the shots. If you liked this post, you may also be interested in others featuring Brazil, Ceará, Cityscapes, Fortaleza, and Lens-Artists. Until the next time, keep clicking and capturing the beauty your eyes find.
Discover more from Through Brazilian Eyes
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Steve Schwartzman
The opening picture and the third one exhibit a “more is more” aesthetic.
Egidio Leitao
Thanks for the comment. It’s nearly overwhelming.
Pamela Zmija ~ Artist & Intuitive
Wow that looks huge! Beautiful shots and great colour pops!
Egidio Leitao
Thank you, Pam. It’s five stories.
I. J. Khanewala
I love this indoor market with its many alleys. Looks like you can really lose yourself there
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, I.J. It’s a fun place to visit.
Wind Kisses
I loved that you kept it to the locals. No brands! There is just something creative about knowing things are not mass produced and instead made with love.
Enjoy your “off the grid” wherever that might be.
Egidio Leitao
Thanks so much, Donna. Yes, keeping it local is the best idea for the artists. We’re off to Pagosa Springs and Ouray.
Wind Kisses
The 20th -24th we will be in and around Ouray. Last year we camped in Ouray. This year we will be more remote outside Silverton.
We will continue to Gunnison from there.
You know my Jeep.
Egidio Leitao
I emailed you privately. I’ll be in Ouray those days.
Tra Italia e Finlandia
Vario e colorato!
Egidio Leitao
Grazie.
Leya
And happy travels!
Egidio Leitao
Thank you.
Leya
Colourful and delightful response, Egidio! I love that it is artisan work and what a joy to see lace making again! I used to do that at school, and somewhere I still have it in a box…Loved your post!
Egidio Leitao
Thanks for the feedback and wonderful challenge, Ann-Christine.
photobyjohnbo
Colorful photos, Egidio! Fortaleza was on our itinerary when we cruised from Rio to Barcelona. At the last minute, NCL swapped Fortaleza for Recife. Sorry I missed the visit to your hometown. It would have been fun to tell you of my experience in your city.
Egidio Leitao
Some other day you’ll make it there. Recife is a wonderful place to visit. I hope you had a chance to see Olinda, too.
photobyjohnbo
I’ll add Olinda to the list!
Egidio Leitao
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will enjoy it.
Wandering Dawgs
Egidio, I love these colorful images! I also love that every item is hand made by a local artist. Enjoy your vacation!
Egidio Leitao
Yes, Beth, it really helps local artists. Thanks for the vacation wishes.
Rupali
Vibrant colours.
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Rupali.
Leanne Cole
Wow that place looks amazing Egidio, I love all the colours.
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Leanne. It’s a very popular place with tourists and locals alike.
Sofia Alves
Still my personal nightmare, even with the excellent intentions and your photos make it look so vibrant and attractive. A good and much need project to support local artisans.
Egidio Leitao
The idea behind it works well. Thanks.
margaret21
At first I thought this was so not going to be my thing, as normally I loathe shopping centres. But now I see the intention behind this, and that it’s truly a showcase for local producers, I can see why you are enthusiastic. Great idea!
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Margaret. It is nice that they only use local artists.
Terri Webster Schrandt
Wonderful finds at the markets, Egidio! Amazing colors. Enjoy your vacation!
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Terri. I appreciate your feedback.
philosophy through photography
I think, Mercado Central a treasure chest of creativity and local charm—no brands, just artisan magic.
From recycled tire shoes to fresh lace-making right in front of you, it’s the heart and soul of Fortaleza wrapped in one lively spot. Definitely a must-visit for anyone who loves unique finds and real craftsmanship.
And a big thank you, for these Lovely clicks.
Egidio Leitao
Philo, your thoughtful response warms my heart. Many thanks and much gratitude.
philosophy through photography
Welcome, Egidio.
Writing to Freedom
I’m not much for a shopping or markets, but this one looks nice. Enjoy your time away Egidio! 🙂
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Brad.
Anne Sandler
Egidio, you can get lost in that shopping center with all its colors and variety. It must be wonderful just to walk through it. Have a great vacation.
Egidio Leitao
It’s a great place to watch people. Thanks, Anne.
bushboy
That is huge and too overwhelming for me
Egidio Leitao
If you don’t like crowds, then it’s not for you. It’s always full of people.