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Francis, aka “F.X.”
About me:
I started studying art full time around 2002. It was a career change for me, something that I needed to do. I’ve always been drawn to the arts and enjoy Portland’s vibrant art community.
Read The Oregonian feature about F.X.
Why I ride:
My number one reason for riding is that it makes sense! I’ve always been a public transportation supporter. Another important reason to ride for me is that, as an artist, I enjoy capturing images of people and landscapes as we ride along together to our destinations. I keep a small sketchbook in my pocket and patiently wait for moments that are hard to resist, and occasionally, I manage to capture just the right moment. TriMet provides me with a “rolling studio” for doing quick sketches.
“My number one reason for riding is that it makes sense!”
I did a sabbatical in 1998-1999 from my university job and rode public transportation in 12 countries: New Zealand, Australia, Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, the Czech Republic, Greece, Austria, Switzerland, England, and Ireland.
One of the main reasons my wife and I decided on living in Portland was the public transportation system and infrastructure. Now it also makes economic sense to ride.
Other forms of transportation I use:
My wife and I are working our way up to riding bicycles again!
My favorite things to do while riding:
People watching (including drivers) and enjoying the scenery. Riding itself is a favorite activity of mine.
My advice to other riders:
Please be courteous to the drivers; it looks like a very tough job.
Here are some of the sketches of the more endearing moments F.X. captured while riding TriMet:
All images copyright Francis X. Rosica
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