Crossing Paths with a Graceful Enigma

Having lived in the Crescenta Valley for 17 years since moving here from England, I’ve come to appreciate the familiar rhythm of our town. Working at Bob Smith Toyota on Foothill Boulevard, I see the usual ebb and flow of daily life along our streets. But recently, a singular moment stopped me in my tracks.

Looking out from the dealership, I saw a woman unlike anyone I’d ever seen strolling through our neighborhood. She wore a striking, floor-length floral dress, held a bright rainbow umbrella against the sun and walked with total poise – all while balancing a large, teal metal water bottle upright on her head as she checked her phone.

Years of street photography have taught me to recognize what Henri Cartier-Bresson called “the decisive moment.” I raised my camera and snapped a frame. Inspired by the scene, I later painted it on canvas to capture its warmth and vibrant color.

After posting the photo on a local Facebook group, I received a message from a woman named Vonisoa: “That’s my beautiful mother!”

I learned the passerby was Dr. Nina Gilberte, a local math professor. When asked about her unique habit, Dr. Nina explained, “The balance is geometry, mathematics and my connection with nature … It frees a hand, requires you not to slouch and allows the veins in your body to straighten up like a hose to release the kinks. No one can teach balance; you have to find it yourself.”

I offered to print two canvas copies of the painting at cost – one for Dr. Nina and one for her daughter.

Our valley is filled with wonderful, quiet moments but sometimes someone walks by who brings a burst of color, elegance and charm straight into our everyday lives. 

It was an honor to capture Dr. Nina’s stroll through [the area] and a joy to connect with her family.

Mark Young
La Crescenta