All Gas And Vapours ...
The French capital now has the ultimate in pollution displays - a 35 meter high (144 feet) helium balloon.
Situated in Parc André Citroën, in the city's 15th district, the balloon will display the current levels of air quality within the city. Much like a set of traffic lights, red indicates 'bad' and green, 'good'. A series of lights inside the balloon change as the the air quality improves or declines and a laser, in the lower portion of the balloon, indicates the ozone levels. The balloon can be visible from 20kms (12 miles) away.
Beneath the tethered balloon is an enclosed metal gondola, capable of holding 30 people. For around £8 you can float up to a height of 150 meters (492 feet) for some of the most breathtaking views of Paris.
Sadly, the inaugural evening was spoilt by threatening storm clouds, so 'Air de Paris' stayed very much 'down to earth'.
All photographs © 2008 Stuart McAlister
For more information, please contact info@stuart-mcalister.com
A Day At The Races ...
In an effort to entice more French to attend the Sport of Kings, the governing body has introduced family-style 'free-entrance Sundays'.
All photographs © 2008 Stuart McAlister
For more information, please contact info@stuart-mcalister.com
Arthur Smith ...
Author of BBC Radio 2's 'The Smith Lectures' and original 'Grumpy Old Man', Professor Arthur Smith descended on the French capital ...
The 'flâneur extraordinare' gave us an insight into his love of poetry, pages from his autobiography, a quick round of 'karaoke Leonard Cohen' and numerous anecdotes of the rich and famous.
All photographs © 2008 Stuart McAlister
For more information, please contact info@stuart-mcalister.com
Jools Holland ...
Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra gave us a night of unforgettable boogie-woogie at the Alhambra on Sunday April 6th. A small selection of images can be found in the gallery.
All photographs © 2008 Stuart McAlister
For more information, please contact info@stuart-mcalister.com
Storm in a D-Cup ...
In Paris, January 24th 2008, the Lingerie fashion shows kicked off at the sprawling Porte de Versailles Expo Centre. The 'general' catwalk display was illustrated by pieces from a multitude of designers and fashion houses.
All photographs © 2008 Stuart McAlister
For more information, please contact info@stuart-mcalister.com
Comedy Corner ...
Just some of the Anglophone comedians who shot through town, leaving a trail of aching sides behind them.
All photographs © 2005/2006/2007 Stuart McAlister
For more information, please contact info@stuart-mcalister.com
Strings and Skins ...
Musicians and songsters.
All photographs © 2005/2006/2007 Stuart McAlister
For more information, please contact info@stuart-mcalister.com