This street photography does not aim to narrate stories or document realities; it simply wanders through Barcelona, observing what unfolds and capturing scenes that stand out for their aesthetics, light or the people and actions involved. It’s nothing more than that.
It’s an evolved form of street photography, from the early black and white images influenced by masters like Cartier-Bresson, Robert Doisneau, Francesc Català Roca or Ramon Colom, to the images where colour takes centre stage, attempting to align with contemporary street photography. Yet, one element remains constant in Ignasi Raventós’ work: the use of light, which imbues it with quality, depth and order. Hence, the title of this work: The light of Barcelona.
Engine running. Starts up. The winter evening light filtering through Carrer de Sant Pere Més Alt, softened by dust from construction work, creates a contrasting atmosphere. Pedestrians cast long shadows, and the motorcycle headlight resembles the setting sun.
Winter storm in Barcelona. With his board under his arm, a surfer rushes to Barceloneta Beach. There he will meet fellow surf enthusiasts. Several days a year, waves grace the Barcelona coast, and when they do, surfers are never far behind.
Shared solitude. A winter morning. Three friends stroll through the Montjuïc Olympic Ring, walking in formation, almost uniformed, with their hands in identical positions. Each lost in their own thoughts.
Pancho’s escape. The evening sun on a winter day casts geometric shadows, dividing the space. The photographer’s shadow is part of the scene. Suddenly, a little dog enters the frame, like a bolt of lightning. “Pancho!”, shouts his owner.
This bicycle park has never been seen empty again. It was installed just that day, and the photographer was fortunate enough to focus the camera through the circles. And there it was: a cyclist passing by.
The skater’s triumph. Every time they successfully flip the skateboard under their feet, land perfectly and keep rolling, they celebrate it as a victory. It’s not easy. They are persistent.
The woman in the hat. Textures, lines and shapes. Barcelona’s residents are elegant.
Pure coincidence. The banana in hand is the cherry on top of this lemon cake.
Plaça Nova. Every morning, guides await customers who have booked. A guided tour of the Gothic Quarter to delve into the city’s millennia-old history.
Winter sunset on Carrer d’Elisabets.
Evening beer. Groups of friends and couples gather at pavement bars near the MACBA art museum.
Grids. In the neighbourhood of El Born, tourists and Barcelona locals can find authentic bars with refined décor.
Music is a staple. In Barcelona, many venues offer live performances.
A man from Barcelona. Carrer del Bisbe connects with Plaça de Sant Jaume. In the winter mornings, the light streams down the street, perfectly outlining the silhouettes.
The golden hour. Rambla de Mar, in Port Vell. Tourists take out their mobile phones to take selfies or photograph the Columbus monument.
Skateboarding master. An enthusiast is heading to the MACBA to show off his skills
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