There’s nothing extraordinary about connecting two similar points, in this case, two former textile factories converted into creative spaces and art galleries. What makes this line, stretching over 12,000 kilometers, absolutely fascinating is that it precisely crosses a third building bearing the same name and serving the same purpose!
From Georgia to Mexico
Starting point: La Fabrika in Tbilisi, Georgia, where I was staying when I discovered this alignment. This former textile factory houses a hostel, a coworking space, restaurants, design shops, and other artistic spaces.
End point: One of my favorite places in Oaxaca, Mexico. It’s the Fábrica de la Soledad Vista Hermosa, built in 1883. Converted into an art gallery, this former textile factory, resembling a castle, is now called Centro de las Artes San Agustin.
Midpoint: The line crosses the Saint-Roch district of Quebec City, passing precisely over the tower and entrance of the La Fabrique building. This former Dominion Corset textile factory has housed the School of Visual Arts of Université Laval since 1993. What a fascinating discovery!
Three buildings with the same name
We therefore have the following alignment: 1) Fabrika; 2) La Fabrique; 3) Fábrica. This is a case of homonymous symplanicity. It should be noted that, in addition to sharing the same function, the three buildings play a similar role as economic catalysts, contributing to the gentrification of their respective neighborhoods.
This line is also a personal one, in the sense that I have had the opportunity to visit and appreciate these three places.