Looking for Alexander

White Angel Breadline, 1933 by Dorothea Lange

Squatters, known as "okupas," who take refuge in abandoned buildings, old apartments, or wealthy people's summer houses, have gained popularity in Europe, particularly in Spain. Surprisingly, they have certain rights here and can't be easily evicted by the property owner or charged with trespassing. Abandoned buildings often become havens for thieves, former convicts, pirates, undocumented immigrants, and drug addicts. These dark dwellings are filled with prostitutes and meth heads who huddle together for warmth during the winter.

However, amidst the less desirable okupas, there are rare individuals like Alexander who possess kind hearts and mean no harm to the world. Alexander, a one-hit wonder Ukrainian artist, made the decision to leave his career behind and settle in one of the abandoned, Victorian-like mansions in the northern part of Barcelona to experience the Mediterranean climate. Remarkably, Alexander even sought permission from his neighbors before squatting in the mansion, assuring them that he wouldn't cause any disturbances or engage in criminal activities (aside from trespassing and squatting). He is truly a fortunate squatter, as the house he occupies is beautiful, well-maintained, and even features a pool and an old jacuzzi.

According to my Russian friend, Albina, Alexander has been squatting in the mansion since the early 2000s. She encountered him while tipsy in La Rambla or Raval (I can't recall which). He approached Albina, seeking directions to a pub. Along the way, they struck up a conversation, and he shared stories of his wild adventures and his previous life in the spotlight. At that time, Albina didn't pay much attention to Alexander as she was preoccupied with her immigration paperwork. It wasn't until later that she realized encounters like those should be cherished and remembered forever. Unfortunately, she lost contact with Alexander. But after narrating his life and her brief encounter with the eccentric old man, she expressed a desire to reunite with him and learn more about his story. Her Russian journalist instincts had been awakened, and she felt both curiosity and concern for what had become of the enigmatic Alexander. I, too, became intrigued by his story. After all, the most fascinating people are often either dead or missing.

I suggested to Albina that we should make an effort to locate Alexander soon. However, his current whereabouts remain unknown. Albina mentioned that it is difficult to track down undocumented immigrants, especially someone who has no social media presence and no longer maintains close connections. Nevertheless, I remain hopeful that one day we will find Alexander. And when that day comes, we will raise a glass in his honor.

Cheers to you, Alexander!