Tag: amazing

Discover real magic in beautiful Balboa Park.

Bagpipe player attracts attention of visitors to San Diego's beautiful Balboa Park.
Bagpipe player attracts attention of visitors to San Diego’s beautiful Balboa Park.

Real magic can be found in Balboa Park. Simply enter the place with wide eyes and an open heart.

You’ll find beauty, wonder, warmth, laughter, inspiration, and life as it should be.

All of it is magic.

A few photos…

Street musicians add magic to the park, entertaining both young and old.
Street musicians add magic to the park, entertaining both young and old.
An artist paints the California Tower from the edge of the San Diego Museum of Art's grassy May S. Marcy Sculpture Garden.
An artist paints the California Tower from the edge of the San Diego Museum of Art’s grassy May S. Marcy Sculpture Garden.
A park visitor on roller skates passes through the May S. Marcy Sculpture Court while diners at Panama 66 enjoy life.
A park visitor on roller skates passes through the May S. Marcy Sculpture Court while diners at Panama 66 enjoy life.
A pair of penny-farthing riders head through the Plaza de Panama in Balboa Park on a sunny San Diego day.
A pair of penny-farthing riders head through the Plaza de Panama in Balboa Park on a sunny San Diego day.
Visitor to Balboa Park reads sign describing an outdoor sculpture recently installed in the Plaza de Panama, part of the Art of the Open Air exhibit.
Visitor to Balboa Park reads sign describing an outdoor sculpture recently installed in the Plaza de Panama, part of the Art of the Open Air exhibit.
Street performers in the colorful Plaza de Panama. A child readies for a photo on the splashing fountain.
Street performers in the colorful Plaza de Panama. A child readies for a photo on the splashing fountain.
A street performer will attempt to free himself from inescapable chains at the foot of the reflecting pool.
A street performer will attempt to free himself from inescapable chains at the foot of the reflecting pool.
A large crowd watches some street entertainment. The Botanical Building rises in the background.
A large crowd watches some exciting street entertainment. The amazing Botanical Building stands in the background.
One of many characters that visitors might see during a walk through Balboa Park in San Diego.
One of many unique characters that visitors might see during a walk through Balboa Park in San Diego.
A photography class in world-famous Balboa Park. Students check out their cameras near the Museum of Man.
A photography class in world-famous Balboa Park. Students check out their cameras near the Museum of Man.
The very popular dog park at the west end of the Cabrillo Bridge on a typical, magical day.
The very popular Nate’s Point Dog Park at the west end of the Cabrillo Bridge on a typical, magical day.
People enjoy sports on the broad grassy area at the west edge of Balboa Park.
People enjoy sports on the broad grassy area at the west edge of Balboa Park.
Plucking arrows from a target of Balboa Park's 28-acre Rube Powell Archery Range. I took this photo while crossing Cabrillo Bridge.
Plucking arrows from a target in Balboa Park’s 28-acre Rube Powell Archery Range. I took this photo while crossing Cabrillo Bridge.
A couple enjoys a lovely day during a stroll through the Alcazar Garden.
A couple enjoys a lovely day during a stroll through the Alcazar Garden.
Victorian street act wows a small crowd within colonnade of the Casa del Prado.
Victorian street act wows a small crowd within colonnade of the Casa del Prado.
A glimpse down El Prado past the big fountain, from east to west, through the central part of Balboa Park.
A glimpse down El Prado past the Bea Evenson Fountain, from east to west, through the central part of Balboa Park.
Another beautiful day in one of the most wonderful places on Earth.
Another beautiful day in one of the most wonderful places on Earth.

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Reflection, geometry, complexity. One iconic dome.

Photo of a unique downtown landmark. The shining lattice dome of the San Diego Central Library, as seen from the ninth floor's outside deck.
Photo of a unique downtown landmark. The shining lattice dome of the San Diego Central Library, as seen from the ninth floor’s outside deck.

Many old redundant photos are being purged from my computer this weekend. But I had to definitely share these!

I’ve blogged about San Diego’s relatively new downtown library several times. I’ve posted more than a few pics of its unique lattice dome. You might recall some weirdly halo-like photos I took in the darkness early one night last year.

Well, check these out! The curving lines of steel reflected in the building’s windows look like a lesson in complex geometry. You know, in a strange way the dome reminds me of a graph or diagram demonstrating how time and space can be warped by gravity! Am I crazy? What does it look like to you?

A collection of rare books is housed in a room on the ninth floor of San Diego's public library.
A collection of rare books is housed in a room on the ninth floor of San Diego’s public library.
The visually impressive steel lattice dome tops an airy two-story high library reading room. An architectural marvel.
The visually impressive steel lattice dome tops an airy two-story high library reading room. An architectural marvel.
Reflections in the windows create a fantastic, mysterious image.
Reflections in the windows create a fantastic, mysterious image.
Looking upward at the metal dome and blue sky. Amazing views can be had of downtown from the library's ninth floor.
Looking upward at the metal dome and blue sky. Amazing views can be had of downtown from the library’s ninth floor.
Lots of geometric complexity and dazzling light for my camera's lens.
Lots of geometric complexity and dazzling light for my camera’s lens.
Peering down into the spacious reading room on a bright sunshiny day.
Peering down into the spacious reading room on a bright sunshiny day.
Filtered light and shadows form unusual grid-like patterns inside the reading room. The perfect place to study a math book, maybe.
Filtered light and shadows form unusual grid-like patterns inside the reading room. The perfect place to study a math book, maybe.
A three-dimensional delight. Intersecting lines fascinate the eye.
A three-dimensional delight. Intersecting lines fascinate the eye.
One last cool photo. I feel like I'm floating through some sort of mathematical dreamscape.
One last cool photo. I feel like I’m floating through some sort of mathematical dreamscape.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

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Artist creates amazing lumen and cyanotype photos!

Uniquely beautiful Fern Lumen by artist Patricia Grabski.
Uniquely beautiful Fern Lumen by artist Patricia Grabski.

This weekend you have an opportunity to see something really unique. Patricia Grabski is displaying her amazing lumen and cyanotype photo art in Balboa Park. Her work is part of a five artist exhibition called Ain’t Nothing Like a Dame, which you can enjoy inside Gallery 21, in the always wonderful Spanish Village Art Center.

I learned that cyanotype printing was invented in England in 1842. Utilizing two chemicals, ammonium iron citrate and potassium ferricyanide, this process was used to create early blueprints. In 1843, the world’s first woman photographer, Anna Atkins, placed organic materials onto paper coated with cyanotype; when exposed to sunlight, ghostly, artistic photograms were created.

Lumens is a very similar process that uses old unexposed black and white photo paper. Exposure to sunlight creates all sorts of fantastic colors and effects.

My own poor photographs don’t do this fascinating artwork justice. You have to see the subtle detail in person. So head on over to Spanish Village tomorrow.  Patricia Grabski’s work will be displayed through March 14. If you want to contact the artist, her info is visible in one photo.

Patricia Grabski is currently exhibiting her unique creations in Gallery 21, in Balboa Park's wonderful Spanish Village Art Center. Her pieces are available for purchase.
Patricia Grabski is currently exhibiting her unique creations in Gallery 21, in Balboa Park’s wonderful Spanish Village Art Center. Her pieces are available for purchase.
Patricia Grabski uses neither camera nor lens--she contact prints her images with alternative photographic processes--cyanotype, platinum, palladium, albumen, van dyke brown, salt and lumens. Her prints are made on photographic paper, art paper, glass, tin, cotton handkerchiefs and old linens.
Patricia Grabski uses neither camera nor lens–she contact prints her images with alternative photographic processes–cyanotype, platinum, palladium, albumen, van dyke brown, salt and lumens. Her prints are made on photographic paper, art paper, glass, tin, cotton handkerchiefs and old linens.

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Leaf Lumen. Fantastic art created by Patricia Grabski.
Leaf Lumen. Fantastic art created by Patricia Grabski.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can follow Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Do you love Balboa Park? Follow my special new blog which I call Beautiful Balboa Park!

Fun photos of Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival!

Murrugun the Mystic prepares to swallow a real sword. He currently holds the world record for longest sword swallow. He has starred on AMC's Freakshow and many other television shows.
Murrugun the Mystic prepares to swallow a real sword. He currently holds the world record for longest sword swallow. He has starred on AMC’s Freakshow and many other television shows!

Wow, what a day! Where do I begin? How about with this weekend’s awesome Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival!

This is the third year in a row I’ve attended the fantastic event. It’s as good as ever! Here are some photos from today to prove it!

If you’re in San Diego tomorrow, head on over to Seaport Village to check out the busker action! On Sunday the various acts will be performing from 12pm – 6pm.

The 2016 Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival features many of the world's best street performers on several stages.
The 2016 Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival features many of the world’s best street performers on several stages.
I saw a few world-class jugglers, including the UniProShow's amazing Jamey Mossengren, a seven-time World Unicycle Champion!
I saw a few world-class jugglers, including the UniProShow’s amazing Jamey Mossengren, a seven-time World Unicycle Champion!
A performing duo called Her Majesty's Secret Circus Show had a funny act that included juggling, silliness and lots of bad jokes.
A performing duo called Her Majesty’s Secret Circus Show had a funny act that included juggling, silliness and lots of bad jokes.
A wicked-looking knife getting readied at the Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival!
A wicked-looking knife getting readied at the Seaport Village Spring Busker Festival!
A secret agent with a bow and plunger prepares to shoot at a bullseye held by another secret agent on a unicycle.
A secret agent with a bow and plunger prepares to shoot at a bullseye held by another secret agent on a unicycle.
CREW was providing crazy good percussive beats using old garbage cans and other odd household objects.
CREW was providing crazy good percussive beats using old garbage cans and other odd household objects.
Fantastic break dancing and acrobatics were the specialty of the super entertaining Flying Tortillas!
Fantastic break dancing and acrobatics were the specialty of the super entertaining Flying Tortillas!
Audience members are readied for a rare stunt. A member of the Flying Tortillas will run and launch himself bodily over six people!
Audience members are readied for a rare stunt. A member of the Flying Tortillas will run and launch himself bodily over six people! Can he make it? You’ll have to go see for yourself!
Murrugun the Mystic breathes fire. He is keeping the old circus sideshow traditions alive.
Murrugun the Mystic breathes fire. He is keeping the old circus sideshow traditions alive.

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I live in downtown San Diego and love to walk! You can enjoy more Cool San Diego Sights via Facebook or Twitter!

Kumeyaay and The Tracks We Leave Behind.

Native American Kumeyaay from the San Diego area work near the foot of an Ewaa, or dome shaped home made of sycamore and oak tree branches.
Native American Kumeyaay from the San Diego area work near the foot of an ewaa, a dome-shaped hut made of sycamore and oak tree branches.

Over two years ago, when Cool San Diego Sights was relatively new, I blogged about some amazing public art near the Santa Fe Depot in downtown San Diego. I provided just a brief glimpse, really.

The artwork, titled The Tracks We Leave Behind, created by Betsy K. Schulz in 2008, is so utterly fantastic, so absorbing, I’ve decided to blog about it once again. Whenever I walk past (which is often), I like to pause an extra few seconds beside my favorite column, which features gorgeous mosaics that depict wild nature and the Native American Kumeyaay people, who have lived around San Diego for about 12,000 years.

Living in this place we set fires to open the land and make the seeds grow. We fish all year, both near shore and deep. We walk to the canyons and the mountains--hunting, gathering food and trading . . .
Living in this place we set fires to open the land and make the seeds grow. We fish all year, both near shore and deep. We walk to the canyons and the mountains–hunting, gathering food and trading . . .
Public art titled The Tracks We Leave Behind, by Betsy K. Schulz, 2008, includes image of a Kumeyaay hattepaa (coyote) howling.
Public art titled The Tracks We Leave Behind, by Betsy K. Schulz, 2008, includes the image of a Kumeyaay hattepaa (coyote) howling.
Beautiful handmade mosaic tiles show a Kumeyaay ispa (eagle) in flight.
Beautiful handmade mosaic tiles form a Kumeyaay ispa (eagle) in flight.
The bald eagle has captured a Kumeyaay hiiwaa (fish).
The bald eagle has captured a Kumeyaay hiiwaa (fish).
Yellow Sycuan Suncups grace this gorgeous, detailed public artwork in downtown San Diego.
Yellow Sycuan Suncups grace this gorgeous, detailed public artwork in downtown San Diego.
The yellow bloom of a prickly pear. This sculpted tile mosaic is so phenomenal, you almost can't remove your eyes from it!
The yellow bloom of a prickly pear. This sculpted tile mosaic is so phenomenal, you almost can’t remove your eyes from it!
The native Kumeyaay people (also called Kumiai, Ipai-Iipay, Tipai-Tipay, Diegueño, Kamia) have lived in the San Diego region for around 12,000 years.
The native Kumeyaay people (also called Kumiai, Ipai-Iipay, Tipai-Tipay, Diegueño, Kamia) have lived in the San Diego region for around 12,000 years.
Public art in San Diego depicts Cinon Duro Mataweer, spiritual leader (kuseyaay or tribal shaman) of the Ipai (formerly northern Diegueño) Native American Indian tribe.
Public art in San Diego depicts Cinon Duro Mataweer, spiritual leader (kuseyaay or tribal shaman) of the Ipai (formerly northern Diegueño) Native American Indian tribe.

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It’s hard to believe, but this photo blog of San Diego now contains over 800 posts, and features a vast universe of wonderful art–not to mention other random cool stuff! Click some links that look interesting if you’d like to explore!  Have fun!

Amazing public art is a hidden San Diego gem.

Sculpture of woman fish processor holding a large tuna. This area south of downtown was once the home of many San Diego canneries.
Sculpture of woman fish processor holding a large tuna. This area south of downtown was once the home of many San Diego canneries.

A month or two ago, during a leisurely walk from downtown to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park, I was thrilled to discover some truly amazing public artwork!

The Cannery Workers Tribute at Parque del Sol is tucked away in a place where very few people go. You’ll find it just a bit north of the Coronado Bay Bridge (which you can see in some of my photographs), near the entrance to Cesar Chavez Park.

The large gleaming sculpture honors thousands of hard-working people who were employed by San Diego’s tuna canneries decades ago. I’ve blogged about our city’s once-thriving tuna industry on several occasions. Not only was San Diego home to the world’s largest tuna fishing fleet during much of the 20th century, but numerous canneries dotted our bayside. In the 1950s, the tuna industry provided more than 17,000 local workers with a living. Many of the jobs involved cleaning and packing fish that would be shipped around the world.

According to the Port of San Diego website, this public artwork is situated in a spot where workers at a nearby cannery would take their break. “During the 1970s, former cannery maintenance worker Roberto Carrero and co-workers dug a hole and planted a small tree. This, now large, coral tree was incorporated into the artwork.”

Four bronze plaques mounted on bits of old machinery recall the history of this area and the once-thriving tuna industry. Click the plaque photos to read them.

The Cannery Workers Tribute sculpture was created in 2009 by Valerie Salatino and Nancy Moran, with assistance from Sheila Moran. It is indeed a very cool sight!

Coral tree planted by a cannery maintenance person decades ago is a feature of the Cannery Workers Tribute at Parque del Sol.
Coral tree planted by a cannery maintenance man decades ago is an important feature of the Cannery Workers Tribute at Parque del Sol.
A high arch of gleaming fish seems to rise above the nearby Coronado Bay Bridge. This public art is located in Barrio Logan, near the entrance to Cesar Chavez Park.
A high arch of gleaming fish seems to rise above the nearby Coronado Bay Bridge. This public art is located in Barrio Logan, near the entrance to Cesar Chavez Park.
Few people pass this way. This public art is definitely a hidden San Diego gem.
Few people pass this way. This public art is definitely a hidden San Diego gem.
A large catch of ocean tuna seems to burst from a basket!
A large catch of ocean tuna seems to burst from a basket!
The advent of the cannery industry in the early 1900s. For most of the 20th century, San Diego was the tuna fishing capital of the world.
The advent of the cannery industry in the early 1900s. For most of the 20th century, San Diego was the tuna fishing capital of the world.
The people included Italian, Japanese, Mexican and Portuguese fishermen, and many cannery workers. Fishing boats have no schedule. When the cannery bell rang, it was time to go to work.
The people included Italian, Japanese, Mexican and Portuguese fishermen, and many cannery workers. Fishing boats have no schedule. When the cannery bell rang, it was time to go to work.
The process was smelly and messy! For tuna to go into a sandwich or salad bowl, it often traveled up to 7000 miles!
The process was smelly and messy! For tuna to go into a sandwich or salad bowl, it often traveled up to 7000 miles!
The end of the San Diego tuna fishing era came in the 1980s, due to foreign competition, high expenses and other factors.
The end of the San Diego tuna fishing era came in the 1980s, due to foreign competition, high expenses and other factors.
Another photograph that you might enjoy.
Another photograph that you might enjoy.
An arch of abundant fish above tuna cannery workers. Public artwork that honors an important chapter in San Diego's history.
An arch of abundant fish above tuna cannery workers. Public artwork that honors an important chapter in San Diego’s history.

UPDATE!

I took additional photos on a later walk past the park…

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Clouds like a dream, above tall ships and palm trees.

Tall ships under beautifully streaked clouds on a late December day in San Diego.
Like delicate magic . . . beautifully streaked clouds on a late December day.

Did you see the fantastic clouds above San Diego’s Embarcadero today? They seemed to be made out of fragile, swirling dreams. They magically appeared in our blue sky, painted above tall ships and palm trees.

Just in case you didn’t see, here are two cool pics!

Amazing clouds above San Diego's Embarcadero.
Fantastic clouds above tall ships and palm trees on San Diego’s Embarcadero.

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Amazing Balboa Park chalk art at Little Italy’s Festa!

Friendly artist at 2015 Festa in San Diego's Little Italy shows me the source material for her Balboa Park themed chalk art creation!
Amazing artist at 2015 Festa in San Diego’s Little Italy.  Smiling, she shows me the source material for her Balboa Park themed chalk art!

Brace yourself! Here come dozens of super cool photos! Check out the amazing chalk art created today for 2015 Festa in San Diego’s Little Italy!  The special theme this year is the centennial of Balboa Park!

Gesso Italiano chalk art is a tradition at Little Italy’s Festa, and every year I’m blown away by all the colorful creations. Most of the images this year are inspired by beautiful Balboa Park, or paintings or artifacts contained in its museums. I arrived to take photos about an hour before the event opened, and many artists were still hard at work. I spoke to one who said their masterpiece took about seven hours to complete. Now that’s dedication to art!

I’ve inserted the team name at the beginning of each caption. Enjoy!

Cecelia Ramos Linayao. Face of child riding Balboa Park's hundred-year-old carousel, which debuted in 1915 for the Panama California Exposition.
Cecelia Ramos Linayao. Face of child riding Balboa Park’s hundred-year-old carousel, which debuted in 1915 for the Panama California Exposition.
Lesley Perdomo. Madonna and child, a popular theme of Gesso Italiano artwork.
Lesley Perdomo. Madonna and child, a popular theme of Gesso Italiano artwork.
Robert Guzman. I believe this might be a hippo at the world famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park!
Robert Guzman. I believe this might be a hippo at the world famous San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park!
Tonie Garza. The iconic El Cid Campeador statue in the Plaza de Panama. Chalk art celebrating Balboa Park's centennial in 2015.
Tonie Garza. The iconic El Cid Campeador statue in the Plaza de Panama. Chalk art celebrating Balboa Park’s centennial in 2015.
Team Parada. A beautiful face with elaborately styled hair.
Team Parada. A beautiful face with elaborately styled hair.
I didn't get the team name, but this exquisite white chalk portrait was one of my favorite pieces at Festa in Little Italy!
I didn’t get the team name, but this exquisite white chalk portrait was one of my favorite pieces at this year’s Festa in Little Italy!
Before Festa opens, chalk artists work on their creations on two blocks of Beech Street in downtown San Diego.
Before the Festa event opens, chalk artists work to finish their creations.  The art covers two blocks of Beech Street in downtown San Diego.
Squadra Terun. A vividly colorful flower. Perhaps this depicts a scene from Balboa Park's reflecting pool.
Squadra Terun. A vividly colorful flower. Perhaps this depicts a scene from Balboa Park’s reflecting pool.
A bit of random chalk art on the street near the official Festa competition entries.
A bit of random chalk art on the street.  I spotted this near the official Festa competition entries.
Ciao! A chalk image of lilies and koi in the reflecting pool and the Botanical Building in Balboa Park.
Ciao! A chalk image of lilies and koi in the reflecting pool, and the Botanical Building in Balboa Park.
I didn't get the team name. The artist was working from what appeared to be a poster or advertisement with the word Ventimiglia, which is a city in Northern Italy.
I didn’t get the team name. The artist was working from what appeared to be a poster or advertisement with the word Ventimiglia, which is a city in Northern Italy.
Lisa Bernal Brethour. Delicate white blooms formed of chalk.
Lisa Bernal Brethour. Delicate white blooms formed of chalk.
Brianna Cunha. Stylish Gesso Italiano art appears to possibly show bubbles, a glass of beer and wheat.
Brianna Cunha. This stylish Gesso Italiano art appears to possibly show bubbles, a glass of beer and wheat.
Bijan Masoumpanah. This chalk art seems to depict a classic sculpture of a bearded head.
Bijan Masoumpanah. This chalk art seems to depict a classic sculpture of a bearded head.
Valerie Michelle. A super colorful parrot and tropical fish!
Valerie Michelle. A super colorful parrot and tropical fish!
Weenie Kingdom. One of the carved wooden horses from the historic Balboa Park Carousel.
Weenie Kingdom. One of the carved wooden horses from the historic Balboa Park Carousel.
Salgado. Perhaps one can see this big cat at the San Diego Zoo!
Salgado. Perhaps one can see this big cat at the San Diego Zoo!
Killer Queens. Dinosaur skull represents what one is likely to see at the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park.
Killer Queens. Dinosaur skull represents what one is likely to see at the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park.
Cobian. Figure in flowing red dress reclining on a couch.
Cobian. Figure in flowing red dress reclining on a couch.
Team Arcala. Chalk interpretation of the historic Cabrillo Bridge and California Building. The artist had looked for hundred-year-old photos of the bridge under construction, without success.
Team Arcala. Chalk interpretation of the historic Cabrillo Bridge and California Building. The artist had looked for hundred-year-old photos of the bridge under construction, but without success.
Meg. A big smile and a boldly colored work of chalk art taking form on a San Diego street during Festa!
Meg. A big smile and a boldly colored work of chalk art taking form on a San Diego street during 2015 Festa!
Team Pinoy. California Tower and the words Balboa Park Centennial Celebration 2015.
Team Pinoy. California Tower and the words Balboa Park Centennial Celebration 2015.
Team Chalkolate. Another chalk representation of the famous El Cid equestrian sculpture near the center of Balboa Park.
Team Chalkolate. Another chalk representation of the famous El Cid equestrian sculpture near the center of Balboa Park.
Campo Elementary. These gifted students won first place last year! What will this chalk art creation be?
Campo Elementary. These gifted students won first place last year! What will this chalk creation be?
John Vaughn. Chalk version of ornate plaster designs above the west arched entrance to Balboa Park.
John Vaughn. Chalk version of ornate plaster designs above the west arched entrance to Balboa Park.
Two blocks in Little Italy were full of rampant creativity this morning.
Two blocks in Little Italy were full of rampant creativity this morning.
Michael Zamora. Fantastic chalk face based on an Italian painting in the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.
Michael Zamora. Fantastic chalk face based on an Italian painting in the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.
Art Within Reach. I thought at first this might be a dog in the lily pond. Then I thought it might be Moby Dick. It's actually a polar bear at the zoo! No ears yet!
Art Within Reach. I thought at first this might be a dog in the lily pond. Then I thought it might be Moby Dick. It’s actually a polar bear at the zoo! No ears yet!
Team Pierre. Vintage images take form as a skilled Gesso Italiano artist takes on the cool theme of Balboa Park's centennial.
Team Pierre. Vintage images take form as a skilled Gesso Italiano artist takes on the cool theme of Balboa Park’s centennial.
Kira Lewis-Martinez. More cool chalk art with a nostalgic feel. The Panama California Exposition marked Balboa Park's debut in 1915.
Kira Lewis-Martinez. More cool chalk art with a nostalgic feel. The Panama California Exposition marked Balboa Park’s debut in 1915.
Lydia Puentes Phillips. Very color koi swimming in the Balboa Park reflecting pool. Great chalk art that captures one of my favorite places!
Lydia Puentes Phillips. Very color koi swimming in the Balboa Park reflecting pool. Great chalk art that captures one of my favorite places!
Raney and Talbott. These guys are basing their image on one of the arched walkways along El Prado--specifically the one next to the Timken Museum.
Raney and Talbott. These artists are basing their image on one of the elegant passageways along El Prado–specifically the one next to the Timken Museum.
Coronado High School. A completed portion of what should eventually be a stunning work of art.
Coronado High School. A completed portion of what should eventually be a stunning work of art.
Liberty Charter High School. A fun giraffe and zebra!
Liberty Charter High School. A fun chalk art giraffe and zebra!
Canyon Crest Academy. The most popular inspiration for this year's Balboa Park centennial theme is the reflecting pool with its beautiful koi and lilies.
Canyon Crest Academy. By far the most popular inspiration for this year’s Balboa Park centennial theme is the reflecting pool with its color-splashed koi and lilies.
Lidia F. Vasquez. Wow! This elaborate mask is super inventive! It's formed out of elements from Balboa Park's unique architecture!
Lidia F. Vasquez. Wow! This elaborate mask is super inventive! It’s formed out of elements from Balboa Park’s unique architecture!
Torrey Hills Elementary School. Gesso Italiano artwork is a tradition at the Festa celebration in Little Italy. I look forward to it every year!
Torrey Hills Elementary School. Gesso Italiano artwork is a tradition at the Festa celebration in Little Italy. I look forward to it every year!
San Diego High School. A girl with a camera in the Botanical Building! I love it!
San Diego High School. A girl with a camera in the Botanical Building! I love it!
Faithful Ambassadors Bible Baptist Academy. Cherry blossoms courtesy of the Japanese Friendship Garden! Is this awesome, or what?
Faithful Ambassadors Bible Baptist Academy. Cherry blossoms courtesy of the Japanese Friendship Garden! Is this awesome, or what?
Washington Elementary STEAM Magnet, based right here in Little Italy! Lots of little colorful scenes along the border.
Washington Elementary STEAM Magnet, based right here in Little Italy! Lots of little colorful scenes along the border.
Team Noni. A very colorful tiger comes alive on the street! More zoo chalk art!
Team Noni. A very colorful tiger comes alive on the street! More amazing zoo animal art!
Julyen Ecoffey. Mother and child spending a sunlit day in San Diego's wonderful Balboa Park.
Julyen Ecoffey. Mother and child spending a sunlit day in San Diego’s wonderful Balboa Park.
Cathedral Catholic High School. Lady with umbrella faces the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Another great image.
Cathedral Catholic High School. Lady with umbrella faces the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. Another great image.
Sycamore Ridge Elementary. Not only are there lily pads in the reflecting pool, but there's an Italian gondola! And an Italian flag over the Botanical Building!
Sycamore Ridge Elementary. Not only are there lily pads and flowers in the reflecting pool, but there’s a Venetian gondola! And an Italian flag over the Botanical Building!
Dos Mustachios. One of the two fountains near either end of the Botanical Building. The actual fountains were recently restored by the Friends of Balboa Park.
Dos Mustachios. One of the two fountains near either end of the Botanical Building. The actual fountains were recently restored by the Friends of Balboa Park.
Torrey Pines High School, National Art Honor Society. I could feast my eyes on this glowing chalk artwork all day long!
Torrey Pines High School, National Art Honor Society. I could feast my eyes on this glowing chalk artwork all day long!
Elisabeth Eckert. Abstract image of Moreton Bay fig tree roots, probably either near the Palm Canyon stairs or Natural History Museum.
Elisabeth Eckert. Abstract image of Moreton Bay fig tree roots, probably either near the Palm Canyon stairs or Natural History Museum.
Mel Clarkston Art. It's a green people mover! I see colored tiles from Spanish Village, flags from the International Cottages, and a butterfly from the Zoro Garden!
Mel Clarkston Art. It’s a green people mover! I see colored tiles from Spanish Village, flags from the International Cottages, and a butterfly from the Zoro Garden!
Mount Miguel High School. Everyone loves the reflecting pool. The calm natural beauty is inspiring.
Mount Miguel High School. Everyone loves the reflecting pool. The calm natural beauty is inspiring.
San Pasqual High School. Classic images from Balboa Park rendered using simple, colored chalk. Fantastic!
San Pasqual High School. Classic images from Balboa Park rendered using simple, colored chalk. Fantastic!
The creativity couldn't be contained! It flowed right out of the specified boundary and onto the nearby asphalt!
The creativity couldn’t be contained! It flowed right out of the specified boundary and onto the nearby asphalt!
Steve Alan and Friends. Simple but captivating.
Steve Alan and Friends. Simple but captivating.
Aaron Hernandez. This is crazy! Looks like Planet of the Apes! I'm guessing these are hip simians who hang out at the San Diego Zoo...
Aaron Hernandez. This is crazy! Looks like Planet of the Apes! I’m guessing these are hip simians who hang out at the San Diego Zoo…
Team Arancio. A portion of this chalk art resembles that cool mural painted earlier this year in Spanish Village for the Balboa Park centennial.
Team Arancio. A portion of this chalk art resembles that cool mural painted earlier this year in Spanish Village for the Balboa Park centennial.
Chalk Riot. Wow! I love this! The nice artist said she incorporated elements from throughout Balboa Park, including the facade of the Museum of Man.
Chalk Riot. Wow! I love this! The nice artist said she incorporated elements from throughout Balboa Park, including the facade of the Museum of Man.
Godfrey's. And finally a stooping giraffe. The San Diego Zoo is a favorite place in amazing Balboa Park.
Godfrey’s. And finally a stooping giraffe. The San Diego Zoo is a favorite place in amazing Balboa Park.
Soon thousands will crowd the street to enjoy this great chalk art. I swung by early and got photos of works in progress!
Soon thousands will crowd the street to enjoy this great chalk art. I swung by early and got photos of works in progress!

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Super cool photos of San Diego’s first Maker Faire!

Amazing 28 foot tall Robot Resurrection stands in Balboa Park's Plaza de Panama during 2015 Maker Faire San Diego!
Amazing 28 foot tall Robot Resurrection stands in Balboa Park’s Plaza de Panama during 2015 Maker Faire San Diego!

Get ready to see some super cool stuff! Here are a bunch of photos I took at Maker Faire San Diego this morning.  The festival, which celebrates human creativity, with an emphasis on engineering and technology, is being held in Balboa Park all weekend long!

2015 Maker Faire in San Diego offers young and old a glimpse of what creators, dreamers and inventors are up to. Here we see some projects of San Diego City Robotics.
2015 Maker Faire in San Diego offers young and old a glimpse of what creators, dreamers and inventors are up to. Here we see some projects of San Diego City Robotics.
Checking out a 3D printer at the San Diego Public Library table at Maker Faire. The library is about to expand their Innovation Lab and will have nine 3D printers!
Checking out a 3D printer at the San Diego Public Library table at Maker Faire. The downtown library is about to expand their Innovation Lab and will have nine 3D printers!
Four of these funny cupcakes cars were cruising around Plaza de Panama and up and down El Prado.
Four of these funny cupcakes cars were cruising around Plaza de Panama and up and down El Prado.
This guy was showing how he employs magnets in very unique bicycle wheel hubs that he produces.
This guy was showing how he employs magnets in very unique bicycle wheel hubs that he produces.
Photo display shows how guitar building--including cutting, drilling, shaping, sanding and dipping--inspires STEM learning.
Photo display shows how guitar building–including cutting, drilling, shaping, sanding and dipping–inspires STEM learning.
Wow! Maker Faire is about to officially open and Robot Resurrection has begun to shoot flames from its fingers! Let's check it out!
Wow! Maker Faire is about to officially open and Robot Resurrection has begun to shoot flames from its fingers! Let’s check it out!
According to Shane Evans, maker of the giant robot, we humans have all become automatons in a highly controlled world.
According to Shane Evans, maker of the giant robot, we humans have all become automatons in a highly controlled world.
Robot Resurrection has been joined by the famous 17 foot tall mechanical walking Electric Giraffe!
Robot Resurrection has been joined by the famous 17 foot tall mechanical walking Electric Giraffe!
Local company Qualcomm had a large exhibit showcasing their electronic chips, some drones, and this little remote control race course which utilizes smart phones.
Local company Qualcomm had a large exhibit showcasing their electronic chips, some drones, and this little remote control race course which utilizes smart phones.
Another fun part of the Qualcomm exhibit at Maker Faire. Robots stack blocks, then cross a finish line.
Another fun part of the Qualcomm exhibit at Maker Faire. Robots stack blocks, then cross a finish line.
Down by the Balboa Park reflecting pool I discovered something really awesome. It's a Victorian-era whimsical flying machine!
Down by the Balboa Park reflecting pool I discovered something really awesome. It’s a Victorian-era whimsical flying machine!
This fantastic, imaginative creation is called the Strato Sculpin. It's a project of the Starburner Galactic Courier Service, a local steampunk group!
This fantastic, imaginative creation is called the Strato Sculpin. It’s a project of the Starburner Galactic Courier Service, a local steampunk group!
Here are some members of the cool group engaged in steampunk cosplay!
Here are some members of the cool group engaged in steampunk cosplay!
Smiling members of the Starburner Galactic Courier Service. They are the galaxy's only bonded courier service operating throughout time and space!
Smiling members of the Starburner Galactic Courier Service. They are the galaxy’s only bonded courier service operating throughout time and space!
This cool guy with the big wheeled penny-farthing bicycle is often seen around Balboa Park. He has appeared in other blog posts. I spoke briefly with him and he's really nice!
This cool guy with the big wheeled penny-farthing bicycle is often seen around Balboa Park. He has appeared in other blog posts. I spoke briefly with him and he’s really nice!
But his big wheel can't compare to this! Coming down El Prado, this awesome personal transportation doohickey looks like it arrived from another world!
But his big wheel can’t compare to this! Coming down El Prado, this awesome personal transportation doohickey looks like it arrived from another world!
And here comes another cool rolling steampunkish robot thingamajig. How cool is this. Human imagination on display at Maker Faire!
And here comes another cool rolling steampunkish robot thingamajig. How cool is this? Human imagination on display at Maker Faire!
Shortly after 10:30, San Diego Mayor Faulconer welcomed the attendees to the first annual Maker Faire.
Shortly after 10:30, San Diego Mayor Faulconer welcomed the attendees to the first annual Maker Faire.
I couldn't believe how much press was gathered for the event. If you live in San Diego, I'm sure you'll see it on the television news!
I couldn’t believe how much press was gathered for the event. If you live in San Diego, I’m sure you’ll see it on the television news!
Jorge Astiazaran, the Mayor of Tijuana, Mexico speaks about our two cities collaborating in various areas, including technology.
Jorge Astiazaran, the Mayor of Tijuana, Mexico speaks about our two cities collaborating in various areas, including technology.
After the brief ceremony and speeches, I headed down to the fountain by the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. Lots more cool stuff was attracting a crowd.
After the brief ceremony and speeches, I headed to the fountain by the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. Lots more cool stuff was attracting a crowd.
Back down El Prado, and now the Electric Giraffe is on the move! This creation has been featured on national media, and even was tickled by President Obama.
Back down El Prado, and now the Electric Giraffe is on the move! This creation has been featured on national media, and even was tickled by President Obama.
Not only do the neck and head move, but it talks! The head is equipped with webcam eyes and special touch-sensitive sensors.
Not only do the neck and head move, but it talks! The head is equipped with webcam eyes and special touch-sensitive sensors.
Russell the Electric Giraffe, also named Rave Raff, heads down El Prado in the heart of Balboa Park!
Russell the Electric Giraffe, also named Rave Raff, heads down El Prado in the heart of Balboa Park!
A costume zone near the Japanese Friendship Garden had stuff that looked like Star Wars steampunk! Chewbacca is wearing some goggles!
A costume zone near the Japanese Friendship Garden had stuff that looked like a combination of Star Wars and steampunk! Chewbacca is wearing some goggles!
The huge Battlepond near the San Diego Air and Space Museum had sea battles taking place! The Western Warship Combat Club makes radio-controlled model ships which engage in real combat!
The huge Battlepond near the San Diego Air and Space Museum had sea battles taking place! The Western Warship Combat Club makes radio-controlled model ships which engage in real combat!
National University's School of Engineering and Computing had a futuristic vehicle on display.
National University’s School of Engineering and Computing had a futuristic vehicle on display.
Some artists by the San Diego Automotive Museum were painting a Prius!
Some artists by the San Diego Automotive Museum were painting a nearby Prius!
Compressed air launched rockets high into the sky, to the delight of kids!
Compressed air launched rockets high into the sky, to the delight of kids!
Holy mackerel! Look at this thing! It's a gigantic robot spider, or something! Wow!
Holy mackerel! Look at this thing! It’s a gigantic robot spider, or something! Wow!
I didn't get the name of this amazing, jaw-dropping contraption, but a close examination shows that it actually walks on those spider-like legs!
I didn’t get the name of this amazing, jaw-dropping contraption, but a close examination shows that it actually walks on those spider-like legs!
Leonardo Da Vinci was the ultimate innovator. The world famous San Diego Air and Space Museum has a special exhibition about the legendary Renaissance inventor.
Leonardo Da Vinci was the ultimate innovator. The world famous San Diego Air and Space Museum has a special exhibition about the legendary Renaissance inventor.
These kids are playing human foosball by the Hall of Champions!
These kids are playing human foosball by the Hall of Champions!
The Drones and Outdoor Play zone had lots of material for young, imaginative creators to assemble.
The Drones and Outdoor Play zone had lots of material for young, imaginative creators to assemble.
A free spirit parked their car nearby. You are more than any mind can or could understand.
A free spirit parked their car nearby. You are more than any mind can or could understand.
A delightfully painted car topped with flower pots!
A delightfully painted car topped with flower pots!
San Diego's first ever Maker Faire is a huge success. There are so many cool things to see, your eyes will pop clean out of your head!
San Diego’s first ever Maker Faire is a huge success. There are so many cool things to see, your eyes will pop clean out of your head!

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Elegance and history at downtown San Diego hotel.

This astonishing ceiling impressed San Diego Trust and Savings Bank customers back in 1928, when it originally debuted.
This astonishing ceiling impressed San Diego Trust and Savings Bank customers back in 1928, when it originally debuted.

There are many amazing hotels around San Diego, especially downtown. Several of the hotels are located in historic old buildings. For several months, the San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building (1928), now occupied by Courtyard by Marriott, has been undergoing outside restoration. A few days ago I noticed that much of the work has been completed, so I decided to go inside the lobby to ask a question or two. And wow!

This was my first time inside the truly eye-popping lobby. Look at the ceiling! The old bank hall, which now welcomes hotel guests, appears almost like the interior of some medieval church, with its arches, vaulted doors, medallions, bronze window grilles and a 32-foot high colorfully painted coffered ceiling. Also reflecting the building’s Italian Romanesque Revival architectural style, the grand interior contains 35 decorative columns with Corinthian capitals, chiseled from 19 different types of marble from around the world. Additionally, the walls, counters, pilasters and floor all feature rich imported marble.

The elegant building, which was constructed with the finest materials available at the time, was designed by notable architect William Templeton Johnson, who is also credited for the San Diego Museum of Art and Natural History Museum buildings in Balboa Park, the Serra Museum in Presidio Park, and the La Jolla Athenaeum. He is also one of the architects responsible for the San Diego County Administration Center.

I was told by a friendly front desk clerk that the restoration involved patching cracks in the building’s exterior. Looks to me like somebody did a good job!

Photo of the San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building taken from one block east on Broadway. The 14-story structure is topped with a two-story penthouse and cupola.
Photo of the San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building taken from one block east on Broadway. The 14-story structure is topped with a two-story penthouse and cupola.
Flag on stately exterior of Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown.
Flag on stately exterior of Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown.
Plaque at 530 Broadway. This property has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior.
Plaque at 530 Broadway. This property has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior.
Elegant bronze and glass entrance to the eye-popping lobby of the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown.
Elegant bronze and glass entrance to the eye-popping lobby of the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown.
Stand inside the old bank hall and gaze upward. You'll think your visiting a fantastic cathedral or medieval building in Europe.
Stand inside the old bank hall and gaze upward. You’ll think your visiting a fantastic cathedral or medieval building in Europe.
The welcoming interior of a modern hotel. An historical building smartly preserved and repurposed.
The welcoming interior of a modern hotel. An historical building smartly preserved and repurposed.
I like this cheerful painting of a girl lying on a turtle behind the hotel's front counter!
I like this cheerful painting of a girl lying on a turtle behind the hotel’s front counter!
Yet another cool sight in my neighborhood: downtown San Diego!
Yet another cool sight in my amazing neighborhood: downtown San Diego!

UPDATE!

When I stepped into the hotel during the San Diego Architectural Foundation’s OPEN HOUSE 2017, I learned from a friendly event volunteer that I could head down to see the old bank’s vaults, which are now meeting rooms! Here are some photos!

Map near the ceiling where steps descend to the elevators.
Map near the ceiling where steps descend from the lobby to elevators.
The beautiful arched ceiling near the bank of elevators.
The beautiful arched ceiling near the hotel’s bank of elevators.
Elegant area near the entrance to The Safe Deposit Room.
Elegant area near the entrance to The Safe Deposit Room.
Formidable steel doors in a lower level hallway, leading to The Vault, a very unique meeting room. The San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building has unusual historic features that hotel guests can enjoy.
Formidable steel doors in a lower level hallway, leading to The Vault, a very unique meeting room. The San Diego Trust and Savings Bank Building has unusual historic features that hotel guests can enjoy.
The Safe Deposit Room in the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown has a rather unusual entrance! The 1928 Mosler safe door weighs 47,000 pounds! Meetings can be held inside.
The Safe Deposit Room in the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown has a rather unusual entrance! The 1928 Mosler safe door weighs 47,000 pounds! Meetings can be held inside.

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