Tag: artists

Rivelino’s Our Silences sculptures head to San Francisco.

Bronze sculptures of Our Silences, by Mexican artist Rivelino, are loaded onto a truck for transport from San Diego to San Francisco. Each figure weighs about a ton.
Bronze sculptures of Our Silences, by Mexican artist Rivelino, are loaded onto a truck for transport from San Diego to San Francisco. Each figure weighs about a ton.

Last January I posted the blog: Our Silences and precious freedom of speech. I had walked down to Ruocco Park, just north of Seaport Village, to investigate an eye-popping new installation of public art titled Nuestros Silencios (which translated from Spanish means Our Silences).

The mysterious, monumental bronze sculptures, created by noted Mexican artist José Rivelino Moreno Valle, convey the importance of freedom of speech. The mouths of the huge anthropomorphic figures are each blocked by a metal plate; voices are censored and silenced. The emotional reaction the artwork produces is quite strong. In the past six months millions of San Diegans and visiting tourists have had the opportunity to be directly influenced by Rivelino’s thought-provoking artwork.

This morning I made another discovery! I was walking along San Diego’s waterfront when I noticed a crane lifting large objects near Tuna Harbor. I thought it was some sort of boating equipment being loaded onto a truck. As I approached, I suddenly saw the large objects were Rivelino’s sculptures!

I soon learned that Our Silences is on its way to San Francisco! (The sculptures were supposed to move to Los Angeles in March, but those plans changed.) The amazing public artwork will soon be situated on the north end of Harry Bridges Plaza, on San Francisco’s Embarcadero in front of the Ferry Building! They should arrive in time to take part in San Francisco’s Mex I Am festival, which showcases performing arts, culture, and ideas from Mexico.

Our Silences has been traveling around the world for about 4 years, making its potent statement in San Diego, Mexico City, and in numerous major cities throughout Europe.

But wait! Would you believe it? I was fortunate this morning to meet the artist himself! He was hanging out at Seward Johnson’s famous Unconditional Surrender statue just across the Fish Market’s parking lot, and I was graciously introduced and allowed to take a photograph!

Rivelino, smiling, showed me on his smartphone a new piece of public art that he’s been working on. Called Equality, it’s going to be installed in historic Trafalgar Square, at the center of London, England! Equality will consist of two huge sculpted index fingers, each pointing at the other. It seems that each massive finger is blaming the other. But people can stand in a space between the two sculptures, reach out and touch the tips of each finger, uniting both! I can’t wait to see photos when Equality is finally installed!

Very cool, indeed!

Rivelino smiles broadly as he supervises the movement of his monumental works of art!
Rivelino smiles broadly as he supervises the movement of his monumental works of art!
Our Silences will soon be exhibited at Harry Bridges Plaza, in front of San Francisco's landmark Ferry Building.
Our Silences will soon be exhibited at Harry Bridges Plaza, in front of San Francisco’s landmark Ferry Building.

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More cool photos from Comic-Con Preview Night!

Pop culture fans at Preview Night were checking out an old school Batman. Pow!
Pop culture fans at Preview Night were checking out an old school Batman. Pow!

Without further ado, here comes a second batch of cool photos taken during Preview Night at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con. Enjoy!

Cool graphics promoting upcoming movie Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Cool graphics promoting upcoming movie Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Super awesome suits of armor at the fantastic Weta Workshop exhibit.
Super awesome suits of armor at the fantastic Weta Workshop exhibit.
Flaming Balrog figurine from the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Flaming Balrog figurine from the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Model of Chappie, from the recent science fiction film.
Model of Chappie, from the recent science fiction film.
Super Mario and other video game characters have a big presence at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Super Mario and other video game characters have a big presence at 2015 San Diego Comic-Con.
Everyone was snapping photos of this cool Superman Hot Wheels car!
Everyone was snapping photos of this ultra cool Superman Hot Wheels car!
And here's another cool Hot Wheels car modeled after a Star Wars stormtrooper helmet.
And here’s another cool Hot Wheels car modeled after a Star Wars stormtrooper helmet.
Awesome Star Lord costume and helmet from Guardians of the Galaxy!
Awesome Star Lord costume and helmet from Guardians of the Galaxy!
I believe this prop is used in the upcoming Ghostbusters sequel.
I believe this prop is used in the upcoming Ghostbusters sequel.
Smaller, independent comic book publishers are out in force, promoting their brands and cool characters.
Smaller, independent comic book publishers are out in force at San Diego Comic-Con, promoting their brands and original characters.
Clive Barker is back at Comic-Con this year with more of his horror-themed artwork.
Clive Barker is back at Comic-Con this year with more of his horror-themed artwork.
IDW, a comic book publisher right here in San Diego, has their titles on display including Back to the Future.
IDW, a comic book publisher right here in San Diego, has their titles on display including Back to the Future.
Zombies and the dead are still in fashion. Here are buckets of bloody bones and other gruesome body parts.
Zombies and the dead are still in fashion. Here are buckets of bloody bones and other gruesome body parts.
It's the Legend of Zelda!
It’s the Legend of Zelda!
Super cool model of Star Wars snowtroopers in an ice cave.
Super cool model of Star Wars snowtroopers in an ice cave.
Nerds like sexy stuff, it seems! These female stormtroopers are being a bit risque.
Nerds like sexy stuff, it seems! These female stormtroopers are being a bit risque.
And, of course, we nerds love straight up, good old-fashioned comic book action figures.
And, of course, we nerds love straight up, good old-fashioned comic book action figures.
A big Captain Marvel graphic next to an exhibit that promotes Ant-Man, which comes out in a couple weeks. I'm stoked!
A big Captain Marvel graphic next to an exhibit that promotes Ant-Man, which comes out in a couple weeks. I’m stoked!
I see good old Charlie Brown. The classics live on!
I see good old Charlie Brown. The classics live on!
The DC Comics area is similar to last year, but with lots of new stuff.
The DC Comics area is similar to last year, but with lots of new stuff.
Costume worn by the Reverse Flash on the CW television show.
Costume worn by the Reverse Flash on the CW television show.
DC's big three superheroes on display on the San Diego Convention Center floor. Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman.
DC’s big three superheroes on display on the San Diego Convention Center floor: Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman.
Alfred E. Neuman looks down on huge crowds pressing through hundreds of cool Comic-Con exhibits.
Alfred E. Neuman looks down on huge crowds pressing through hundreds of cool Comic-Con exhibits.
Alfred E. Neuman encourages everyone to take a stupid selfie!
Alfred E. Neuman encourages everyone to take a stupid selfie!
Some of the models at Comic-Con are so detailed and amazing it almost blows the mind.
Some of the models at Comic-Con are so detailed and amazing it almost blows the mind.
Just a random pic of something I liked walking down one aisle.
Just a random pic of something I liked walking down one aisle.
Cool t-shirts and merchandise is everywhere. If I had a million dollars in my pocket, it wouldn't have been enough.
Cool t-shirts and merchandise is everywhere. If I had a million dollars in my pocket, it wouldn’t have been enough.
More colorful comic book art on a table.
More colorful comic book art on a table.
Some psychedelic artwork seems to glow in the dim light of the convention center.
Some psychedelic artwork seems to glow in the dim light of the convention center.
Sinister face on large ComicBase software graphic seems to be looking down at an exhibitor as he ties his shoelace!
Sinister face on large ComicBase software graphic seems to be looking down at an exhibitor as he ties his shoelace!
There are boxes and boxes and more boxes of comic books, naturally!
There are boxes and boxes and more boxes of comic books, naturally!
If you have 40 grand to spare, you can grab this issue of Marvel Comics.
If you have 40 grand to spare, you can grab this issue of Marvel Comics.
Monsters and villains easily outnumber heroes and cute characters. As they say, the bad guys often seem to be more interesting.
Monsters and villains easily outnumber heroes and cute characters. As they say, the bad guys often seem to be more interesting.
Here's a big Wonder Woman poster. Almost nine o'clock and time to walk home. It's quite nice to live downtown!
Here’s a big Wonder Woman poster. Almost nine o’clock and time to walk home. It’s quite nice to live downtown!
Bob the Angry Flower wasn't too miffed to be captivated by a comic book.
Bob the Angry Flower wasn’t too miffed to be captivated by a comic book.

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Super cool street murals on two Hillcrest walls.

Mermaids are one element in cool street art on wall of The Merrow.
Mermaids are an element in street art painted on outside wall of The Merrow.

Check out these photos of two building walls in Hillcrest. Both border a short driveway and tiny parking lot on University Avenue, next to The Merrow, a bar that features great live music, and Tabletop Commons, a cool eatery where diners can also play a huge assortment of games.

After looking at the names on one mural, and doing some searching on the internet, I believe these were spray painted–at least in part–by the prolific street artist Fizix. If someone knows more, leave a comment!

Ancient ship hull threatened by mines and an underwater plant with huge teeth!
Ship hull threatened by mines and a monstrous underwater plant with huge teeth!
Graffiti lady dances on wall bordering tiny parking lot, across from Tabletop Commons in Hillcrest.
Graffiti lady dances on wall bordering tiny parking lot, across from Tabletop Commons in Hillcrest.
Piano, face and mad swirls of color. More awesome street art in uptown San Diego.
Piano, face and mad swirls of color. Super cool street art in San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood.
Another feast for the eyes painted in an art-filled neighborhood.
Another delicious bite of a visual feast.  Lots of urban art can be found in this uptown community.
Stylish figures on wall leading from alley to parking lot of The Merrow and Tabletop Commons.
Fantastic faces on wall next to The Merrow and Tabletop Commons.
Spray paint mural contains Egyptian symbols. A dazzling display of human creativity.
Spray paint mural contains Egyptian symbols and motifs. A dazzling display of human creativity.
Pink abstract cat awaits at edge of Hillcrest alley.
Pink abstract cat awaits at edge of Hillcrest alley.

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Cool photos of fun, funky Ocean Beach Street Fair!

Cool skateboard bench by the 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off Festival on Newport Avenue.
Cool skateboard bench by the 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off Festival on Newport Avenue.

Late this morning I spent a little time at one of the coolest summer events in Southern California!

The 36th Annual Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festival was being held along Newport Avenue, drawing a huge crowd from all around San Diego. Many consider OB their favorite beach community. Once you see these photos, you might understand why!

A masked street performer shakes hands with a kid on a scooter. The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier stretches in the background.
A masked street performer shakes hands with a kid on a scooter. The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier stretches in the background.
San Diegans and Obetians check out a street vendor selling colorful t-shirts.
San Diegans and Obetians check out a street vendor selling colorful t-shirts.
Fun, unusual art all over the place. Lots to see at this legendary summer street festival in a laid-back, funky Southern California beach community.
Fun, unusual art all over the place. Lots to see at this legendary summer street festival in a laid-back, funky Southern California beach community.
Creative people had cool stuff on display and for sale in the Artists' Alley.
Creative people had cool stuff on display and for sale in the Artists’ Alley.
Kids were invited to express themselves with pottery, painting and chalk art.
Kids were invited to express themselves with pottery, painting and chalk art.
Young artists use their imaginations as they work behind a utility box decorated with parrots in Ocean Beach.
Young artists use their imaginations as they work behind a utility box decorated with parrots in Ocean Beach.
Public art mural on one wall depicts the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.
Public art mural on one wall depicts the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.
Just a typical scene from this awesome street festival.
Just a typical scene from this awesome street festival.
Someone checks out large works of colorful art in OB.
Someone checks out large works of colorful art in OB.
One booth had all sorts of awesome, unique decorative surfboards!
One booth had all sorts of awesome, unique decorative surfboards!
And, of course, food was everywhere!
And, of course, food was everywhere!
Ocean Beach is the scene of many different happy lifestyles and diverse, life-affirming interests.
Ocean Beach is the scene of many different happy lifestyles and diverse, life-affirming interests.
It wasn't even lunchtime and some folks were already chowing down.
It wasn’t even lunchtime and some folks were ready to chow down.
If these cookies don't make you drool, nothing will!
If these cookies don’t make you drool, nothing will!
All sorts of cool surf shops line Newport Avenue, where the festival was held.
All sorts of cool surf shops line Newport Avenue, where the festival was held.
Rock and Roll San Diego was teaching kids how to play drums, electric guitar and more!
Rock and Roll San Diego was teaching kids how to play drums, electric guitar and more!
A young man is training to be a rock superstar!
A young man is training to be a rock superstar!
Street musicians in OB next to a storefront on a summer day.
Street musicians in OB next to a storefront on a summer day.
Young and old were practicing maintaining balance on a board that mimics surfing.
Young and old were practicing maintaining balance on a board that simulates surfing.
Yeah, another photo of food getting ready...
Yeah, another photo of food getting ready…
Ocean Beach is jam-packed with amazing urban art, almost anywhere you walk!
Ocean Beach is jam-packed with amazing urban art, almost anywhere you walk!
People were just getting started with the community mural project!
People were just getting started with the community mural project!
Anyone could participate in painting a small square in this large mural!
Anyone could participate in painting a small square in this large mural!
Another street mural on a wall above a station where people could park their bikes.
Another street mural on a wall above a station where people could park their bikes.
Surfboards on top, cool decals plastered around. Let's walk past the Hodadmobile and check out something amazing...
Surfboards on top, cool decals plastered around. Let’s walk past the Hodadmobile and check out something amazing…
Burgers are famous at Hodad's, and so is the skateboarding demonstration beside their restaurant.
Burgers are famous at Hodad’s, and so is the skateboarding demonstration beside their restaurant.
Skater catches huge air as he performs trick from a ramp, wowing everybody watching!
Skater catches huge air as he performs trick from a ramp, wowing everybody watching!
Lots of skilled skateboarders were taking turns on this small half-pipe.
Lots of skilled skateboarders were taking turns on this small half-pipe.
Oh, man--lots of very cool action!
Oh, man–lots of very cool action!
Legendary Hodad's had a burger-eating competition!
Legendary Hodad’s had a burger-eating competition!
Some guys walking along near porta-potties by the beer garden.
Some guys walking along near porta-potties by the beer garden.
Guy chills with a Starbucks by funky sculptures on Newport Avenue near the beach. He's listening to a really great concert.
Guy chills with a Starbucks by funky sculptures on Newport Avenue near the beach. He’s listening to a really great concert.
The local band Markland performs on the Main Stage at the 2015 Ocean Beach Street Fair.
The local band Markland performs on the Main Stage at the 2015 Ocean Beach Street Fair.
Justin Markland peers at me over drums while Randy Jones entertains the Ocean Beach crowd with irrepressible vocal and physical energy.
Justin Markland peers at me over drums while Randy Jones entertains the Ocean Beach crowd with irrepressible vocal and physical energy.
Just a pic to provide some flavor of what I saw this morning.
Just a pic to provide some flavor of what I saw this morning.
Surfers come up across the beach while a guy relaxes on the sea wall.
Surfers come up across the beach while a guy relaxes on the sea wall.
People walk behind the Main Stage along the beach, toward the Ocean Beach lifeguard station. An overcast day with a few sprinkles, but it didn't matter!
People walk behind the Main Stage along the beach, toward the Ocean Beach lifeguard station. An overcast day with a few sprinkles, but it didn’t matter!
People buy tickets to sample special concoctions at the famous chili contest!
People buy tickets to sample special concoctions at the famous chili contest!
This tent featured one of the chili cook-off contestant teams.
This tent featured one of the chili cook-off contestant teams.
Stirring and scooping from one big pot of hot chili!
Stirring and scooping from one big pot of hot chili!
Unfortunately, this poor dog can't participate without a ticket. And it seems like he knows it.
Unfortunately, this poor dog can’t participate without a ticket. And it seems like he knows it.
Perhaps this chili was the winner. Looks tasty, if you don't mind that it's served from a toilet!
Perhaps this chili was the winner. Looks tasty, if you don’t mind that it’s served from a toilet!

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Fintan Magee’s cool street mural in East Village!

Fintan Magee, famous Australian street artist, painted the Hunger mural in San Diego's East Village.
Fintan Magee, famous Australian street artist, painted the “Hunger” mural in San Diego’s East Village.

Some cool, thought-provoking street art was painted on the west wall of the old Jerome’s warehouse about half a year ago. It’s part of the Sea Walls Project, a collaboration with PangeaSeed to provide a view of the tuna industry (which used to be very important in San Diego decades ago). Titled “Hunger”, the huge street mural is by world-famous street artist Fintan Magee, who is often described as Australia’s Banksy!

As you might recall, the south side of this old East Village building contains the MOOPA ArtWall.

A tuna fisherman's hand and his bound, bloody catch emerge from a pile of fish.
A tuna fisherman’s hand and his bound, bloody catch emerge from a pile of fish.
An uprooted tree is weirdly suspended behind a real tree growing from a San Diego sidewalk.
An uprooted tree is weirdly suspended behind a real tree growing from a San Diego sidewalk.
Fisherman in yellow slicker seems to release a seagull from a tangle of fishing line.
Fisherman in yellow slicker seems to release a seagull from a tangle of fishing line.

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Painting the 1915 Centennial Mural in Balboa Park.

Local artists put the finishing touches on the 20 foot long 1915 Centennial Mural in Balboa Park.
Local artists put the finishing touches on the 20 foot long 1915 Centennial Mural in Balboa Park.

My Sunday walk around Balboa Park took me through the Spanish Village Art Center. Not only were local artists painting live Flamenco dancers, but they were completing a fantastic 20 foot mural celebrating Balboa Park’s centennial. (Today I was also introduced by a couple of super friendly people, including a resident artist, to the history of Spanish Village. I will blog about that shortly, after a little additional research…and when I have the time!)

I hope you enjoy my photographs of this awesome mural. Titled “1915 Balboa Park”, it’s an imaginative composite of historical images painted by eleven talented artists. Each image occupies a 2 by 6 foot panel, and depicts locations from the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, and people in early 20th century dress.

Spanish Village is home to some of San Diego’s very finest artists. Wherever you turn, you’ll find painters, potters, sculptors, photographers, glassblowers, you name it! It’s fun to just stroll through the colorful courtyard and visit the charming studios. If you want to purchase fine artwork for yourself or as a gift, this is an excellent place to go!

This weekend the public could watch as artists painted a historical mural in Spanish Village.
This weekend the public could watch as artists painted a historical mural in Spanish Village.
Spanish Village is like San Diego sunlight passed through a prism, with rainbow splashes everywhere.
Spanish Village is like San Diego sunlight passed through a prism, with rainbow splashes everywhere.
Bios of artists Carol Foster, Joan Boyer, Joan Nies, Laurie Carlock, Don Knapp, Michelle Gonzalez, Sonia Rumzi, Linda Lepeirs, Lucy Wang, Edward Juarez, Dot Renshaw.
Bios of artists Carol Foster, Joan Boyer, Joan Nies, Laurie Carlock, Don Knapp, Michelle Gonzalez, Sonia Rumzi, Linda Lepeirs, Lucy Wang, Edward Juarez, Dot Renshaw.
Ladies in period dresses occupy the left part of the cool mural.
Ladies in period dresses occupy the left part of the cool mural.
Now we're working our photographic way to the right, along the base of the Cabrillo Bridge. A hundred years ago there was a lake beneath the historic bridge! (Where Highway 163 is today.)
Now we’re working our photographic way to the right, along the base of the Cabrillo Bridge. A hundred years ago there was an artificial lake beneath the bridge! (Where Highway 163 is today.)
Bright color and shades of gray are fused together to depict the California Building with its iconic bell tower.
Two different styles (one with bright colors, the other with shades of gray) are fused together to depict the California Building with its iconic bell tower.
There were many lush gardens around Balboa Park a hundred years ago, planted specifically for the Panama-California Exposition.
There were many lush gardens around Balboa Park a hundred years ago, planted specifically for the Panama-California Exposition.
Artist studies the right end of the 20 foot long mural. That golden tree looks like it could be transplanted right into Spanish Village!
An artist studies the right end of the 20 foot long mural. That golden tree looks like it could be transplanted right into Spanish Village!

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Artists paint live Flamenco dancing in Spanish Village!

Guitar music propels Flamenco dancers in Balboa Park's Spanish Village.
Guitar music propels Flamenco dancers in Balboa Park’s Spanish Village.

This afternoon I enjoyed watching some amazing Flamenco dancing. Balboa Park’s colorful Spanish Village, the home to many artist studios, hosted the special event. As beautifully dressed lady Flamenco dancers performed for the public, local artists at easels painted away!

Flamenco dancing is fiery, stately and proud. Each dance and dancer glowed with unabashed human emotion. The audience learned a little about the nature of this Spanish folk dance, but I was so mesmerized I failed to jot down many notes. I remember that one dance was said to represent defiant joy, another a representation of pure, carefree womanhood.

The public was invited to watch local artists painting a performance by the La Paloma Flamenco Dance Company.
The public was invited to watch local San Diego artists painting a performance by the La Paloma Flamenco Dance Company.
Crowd shouts and claps as the whirling ladies move their limbs and tap feet with graceful, fluid, precise abandon.
Crowd shouts and claps as the whirling ladies move their limbs and tap feet with graceful, fluid, joyful abandon.
The energetic Spanish folk dancing causes colorful fabric to fly and twirl like a gauzy dream.
The energetic Spanish folk dancing causes colorful fabric to fly and twirl like a gauzy dream.
A range of powerful human emotion is transmitted to the audience during each fantastic Flamenco dance.
A range of powerful human emotion is transmitted to the audience during each fantastic Flamenco dance.
A carefully watching artist has made a few sketches during the performance in Spanish Village.
A carefully watching artist has made a few sketches during the performance in Spanish Village.
I don't know how an artist can begin to capture the dynamism and detail of the colorful, kinetic dance!
I don’t know how an artist can begin to capture the dynamism and detail of the colorful, kinetic dance!
A local artist from Spanish Village in Balboa Park streaks color across a canvas. A skilled hand and eye produces the same bold living essence expressed by the dance.
A local artist from Spanish Village in Balboa Park streaks color across a canvas. A skilled hand and eye produces the same bold living essence expressed by the dance.

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Photos of San Diego library’s Art of Comic-Con exhibit!

People enter the Art of Comic-Con exhibit, opening today at the downtown San Diego Public Library.
People enter the Art of Comic-Con exhibit, opening today at the downtown San Diego Public Library.

Today a very special exhibition opened at the downtown library’s 9th floor gallery. The Art of Comic-Con, developed by Comic-Con International and the San Diego Public Library, contains a huge collection of original artwork used throughout the 45 year history of San Diego Comic-Con.

The exhibition runs through August 30 and should draw a crowd during Comic-Con week. During today’s two hour opening reception, super popular cartoonist Sergio Aragones was on hand to talk with fans and sign copies of his 40th anniversary Comic-Con cover. He was very friendly and spoke with everyone in line for a minute or two, always smiling and laughing and posing for the camera. He’s into his fourth decade of writing and drawing the adventures of the hilarious and very successful Groo the Wanderer!

Here are a bunch of photos! My small camera did its best in the dim light of the gallery…

Someone heading in to check out the gallery is wearing a 1997 Comic-Con International shirt.
Someone heading in to check out the gallery is wearing a 1997 Comic-Con International shirt.
The Art of Comic-Con is a first ever museum exhibition consisting of original artwork used for past conventions.
The Art of Comic-Con is a first ever museum exhibition consisting of original artwork used for past comic conventions.
A cool mural composed of covers from past San Diego Comic-Con programs, plus other affiliated conventions.
A cool mural composed of covers from past San Diego Comic-Con programs, plus other affiliated conventions.
Past souvenir program covers feature many different superheroes and pop culture characters.
Past souvenir program covers feature many different superheroes and pop culture characters.
A riot of fun images dazzled many visitors to the opening of this special exhibit.
A riot of fun images dazzled many visitors to the opening of this special exhibit.
Close photo of part of the Comic-Con program book mural.
Close photo of part of the Comic-Con program book mural.
I see Bart Simpson, a bunch of Marvel heroes, Star Wars characters, Balboa Park and much more.
I see Bart Simpson, a bunch of Marvel heroes, Star Wars characters, Balboa Park and much more.
This part of the exhibit traces the history of the Comic-Con International logo and the development of the popular toucan mascot.
This part of the exhibit traces the history of the Comic-Con International logo and the development of the popular toucan mascot.
Fun artwork that was used during the 40th anniversary of San Diego Comic-Con.
Fun artwork that was used during the 40th anniversary of San Diego Comic-Con.
The toucan is flapping around anticipating another Comic-Con!
The toucan is flapping around anticipating another Comic-Con!
Someone checks out a display case containing an example of an Inkpot Award. These are presented to outstanding authors, artists and other creative luminaries every year during Comic-Con.
Someone checks out a display case containing an example of an Inkpot Award. These are presented to outstanding authors, artists and other creative luminaries every year during Comic-Con.
I spotted Krypto the Superdog taking a nap among more enthusiastic human Comic-Con fans.
I spotted Krypto the Superdog taking a nap among more enthusiastic human Comic-Con fans.
Visitors check out original comic book art created for Comic-Con souvenir program books over the past 45 years.
Visitors check out original comic book art created for Comic-Con souvenir program books over the past 45 years.
The Art of Comic-Con special exhibit contains original work from more than 60 notable cartoon and comic book artists
The Art of Comic-Con special exhibit contains original work from more than 60 notable cartoon and comic book artists
All kinds of animals hang out in San Diego!
All kinds of animals hang out in San Diego!
Space alien asks Marmaduke for directions to Comics Con. It will be mere blocks from the Central Library! In a few weeks, I expect to see a few aliens walking around San Diego, too!
Space alien asks Marmaduke for directions to Comics Con. It will be mere blocks from the Central Library! In a few weeks, I expect to see a few aliens walking around San Diego, too!
I guess Jimmy Carter was having troubles during a past Comic-Con.
I guess Jimmy Carter was having troubles during a past Comic-Con.
Cartoonists of every stripe have contributed greetings for the Comic-Con souvenir book over the years.
Cartoonists of every stripe have contributed greetings for the Comic-Con souvenir book over the years.
I spotted Conan the Librarian in downtown San Diego's incredible new library!
I spotted Conan the Librarian in downtown San Diego’s incredible new library!
Commander Spock of Vulcan visited Earth back in 1974. Comic-Con then was held in the El Cortez Hotel, a couple blocks from where I'm preparing this blog!
Commander Spock of Vulcan visited Earth back in 1974. Comic-Con then was held in the El Cortez Hotel, a couple blocks from where I’m preparing this blog!
Mickey Mouse headed down to San Diego one year. I'm willing to bet he'll be here again this year!
Mickey Mouse headed down to San Diego one year. I’m willing to bet he’ll be here again this year!
In 1981, Peter Parker lost a game of strip poker with Mary Jane Watson!
In 1981, Peter Parker lost a game of strip poker with Mary Jane Watson!
This guy is probably still looking for the San Diago Convention Center.
This guy is probably still looking for the San Diago Convention Center.
Kid checks out a hands on exhibit showing how comic books are produced and printed.
Kid checks out a hands on exhibit showing how comic books are produced and printed.
A penciled panel featuring Batgirl in action. Part of a cool display which demonstrates the processes involved in creating a comic book.
A penciled panel featuring Batgirl in action. Part of a cool display which demonstrates the processes involved in creating a comic book.
Inked and finished cover of the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con souvenir book. The art celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Will Eisner's The Spirit, by artist Michael Cho.
Inked and finished cover of the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con souvenir book. The art celebrates the 75th Anniversary of Will Eisner’s The Spirit, by artist Michael Cho.
Visitors to the San Diego's Art of Comic-Con museum exhibit enjoy a huge mural from a 2008 book cover created by legendary cartoonist Sergio Aragones.
Visitors to the San Diego’s Art of Comic-Con museum exhibit enjoy a huge mural from a 2008 book cover created by legendary cartoonist Sergio Aragones.
Check this out! The mural by Sergio Aragones, of Groo the Wanderer fame, contains hundreds of characters romping about San Diego during Comic-Con!
Check this out! The mural by Sergio Aragones, of Groo the Wanderer fame, contains hundreds of characters romping about San Diego during Comic-Con!
Everyone is heading toward San Diego! I bet they'll crowd into the Gaslamp for an enormous cosplay and pop culture party!
Everyone is heading toward San Diego! I bet they’ll crowd into the Gaslamp for an enormous cosplay and pop culture party!
Gazillions of fans and cosplayers are assembled in front of the San Diego Convention Center!
Gazillions of fans and cosplayers are assembled in front of the San Diego Convention Center!
Superheroes are swinging and flying all over the place!
Superheroes are swinging and flying all over the place!
The silly Sergio Aragones characters have materialized in San Diego from a fertile imagination.
The silly Sergio Aragones characters have materialized in San Diego from a fertile imagination.
One wall in the Central Library museum contained original art used to created past Comic-Con souvenir book covers.
One wall in the Central Library museum contained original art used to create past Comic-Con souvenir book covers.
Artwork used in the 1989 program book cover.
Artwork used for the 1989 program book cover.
1993 cover artwork from the legendary comic book and graphic novel artist Frank Miller.
1993 cover artwork from the legendary comic book and graphic novel artist Frank Miller.
The Justice League flies into action in this original 2011 cover art from fan favorite Jim Lee.
The Justice League flies into action in this original 2011 cover art from fan favorite Jim Lee.
John Romita, Jr. drew Marvel Avengers for the 2012 San Diego Comic-Con souvenir book.
John Romita, Jr. drew some of Marvel’s Avengers for the 2012 San Diego Comic-Con souvenir book.
Dave McKean cover artwork for 2013 Comic-Con.
Dave McKean cover artwork for 2013 Comic-Con.
Jim Lee drew Superman for this WonderCon program book cover in 2013.
Jim Lee drew Superman for this WonderCon program book cover in 2013.
Cliff Chiang's Wonder Woman graced the cover of WonderCon's program book in 2014.
Cliff Chiang’s Wonder Woman graced the cover of WonderCon’s program book in 2014.
Sergio Aragones signed his covers from the 2008 book Comic-Con 40 Years of Artists, Writers, Fans and Friends. He's a super friendly guy!
Sergio Aragones signed his covers from the 2008 book “Comic-Con 40 Years of Artists, Writers, Fans and Friends”. He’s a super friendly guy!
If you're going to 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, head to the 9th floor of the downtown library. The gallery is up there, along with some great views of the city!
If you’re going to 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, head to the 9th floor of the downtown library. The gallery is up there, along with some great views of the city!

Comic-Con is coming! I’ll be taking lots of pics!

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Watercolor Society members paint portraits near roses.

Artist works at edge of the Sybil Stockdale Rose Garden behind the Command Center at NTC Liberty Station.
Artist works by the Sybil Stockdale Rose Garden, behind the Command Center at NTC Liberty Station.

Yesterday, while I waited for the San Diego Comic Art Gallery to open, I walked a bit around NTC Liberty Station. I was pleased to stumble upon painters at work in the beautiful rose garden behind the old Command Center. I learned the artists were members of the San Diego Watercolor Society, which has its gallery in one of the nearby buildings. I took a few photos that you might enjoy.

Members of the San Diego Watercolor Society practice painting portraits amid beautiful roses
Members of the San Diego Watercolor Society practice painting portraits amid beautiful roses
This creative lady at an easel sported a cool paint palette hat!
This creative lady at an easel wore a unique paint palette hat!
Brushes wait on a nearby bench.
Brushes wait on a nearby bench.
The painters appeared to be mostly working from photographs.
The painters appeared to be mostly working from photographs.
Friendly gentleman receives some feedback as he carefully applies color to a canvas.
Friendly gentleman receives some feedback as he carefully applies color to a canvas.
Artist in a corner of NTC Liberty Station creates a watercolor portrait.
Artist in a corner of NTC Liberty Station creates a watercolor portrait.
Another member of the San Diego Watercolor Society walks toward the old Command Center on a perfect Saturday.
Another member of the San Diego Watercolor Society walks toward the old Command Center on a perfect Saturday.

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at IDW comic art gallery!

A very cool comic art gallery created by IDW Publishing opened a little over a week ago in San Diego's Liberty Station.
A very cool comic art gallery created by IDW Publishing opened a little over a week ago in San Diego’s Liberty Station.

This morning I enjoyed an incredible treat. I checked out the new San Diego Comic Art Gallery, part of IDW Publishing’s new headquarters at NTC Liberty Station. IDW is the fourth largest comic book publisher in the United States, and their rapid expansion was the reason for their move. Their new home is in a renovated barracks at the historic Naval Training Center San Diego, located in Point Loma. NTC Liberty Station has become home to a number of other museums, galleries and cultural attractions, a few of which I’ve blogged about already.

The first exhibition at the San Diego Comic Art Gallery concerns the art of Kevin Eastman. He is a co-creator of the stupendously successful Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He and Peter Laird imagined the funny characters during a casual brainstorming session over thirty years ago. Their Mirage Studios was founded in 1983. IDW now owns publishing rights to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, so original artwork provided by Kevin Eastman appropriately fills the comic gallery for the public to freely enjoy. Perhaps the most incredible part of the exhibition is a realistic representation of his studio, filled with creative materials and his own personal collectibles. There are shelves and shelves of toys, figurines and cool pop culture stuff!

Flash photography is not allowed in the museum-like gallery, because the light degrades the extremely valuable artwork. Consequently, many of my photos came out dim or blurred. Here are a few which turned out reasonably okay. They provide a flavor of what you’ll see should you visit!

The first exhibition of the San Diego Comic Art Gallery features the work of Kevin Eastman, co-creator of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
The first exhibition of the San Diego Comic Art Gallery features the work of Kevin Eastman, co-creator of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Kevin Eastman began reading comics and drawing at a very young age. Major influences include Jack Kirby and science fiction. He created a character named Ninja Turtle just for fun.
Kevin Eastman began reading comics and drawing at a very young age. Major influences include Jack Kirby and science fiction. He created a character named Ninja Turtle just for fun.
One of several TMNT drawings in a front window at the new San Diego Comic Art Gallery.
One of several TMNT drawings in a front window at the new San Diego Comic Art Gallery.
Many examples of original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle artwork are on display in the fun, family-friendly museum.
Many examples of original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle artwork are on display in the fun, family-friendly museum.
Foot Warrior Chick and a Foot Ninja with cloak, two enemies of the world-famous comic book, movie and cartoon turtles.
Foot Warrior Chick and a Foot Ninja with cloak, two enemies of the world-famous comic book, movie and cartoon turtles.
Images in one display show some work of comic artist Kevin Eastman and the studio where he has worked.
Images in one display show some work of comic artist Kevin Eastman and the studio where he has worked.
The studio you see before you is what I work in today. Every item has been brought from my home studio, and personal collections spanning over thirty five years. Cowabunga Dude!
The studio you see before you is what I work in today. Every item has been brought from my home studio, and personal collections spanning over thirty five years. Cowabunga Dude!
Photo through glass of the Kevin Eastman studio, transported to San Diego for this special exhibition.
Photo through glass of the Kevin Eastman studio, transported to San Diego for this special exhibition.
Wood panel by studio window shows the four funny, dynamic turtles in action.
Wood panel by studio window shows the four funny, dynamic turtles in action.
Leonardo, wearing a blue mask, overlooks visitors to a room where kids and adults are encouraged to draw, experience and read about comic art.
Venus, wearing a blue mask, overlooks visitors to a room where kids and adults are encouraged to draw, experience and read about comic art.
Inked panel is one sample of the fun TMNT artwork on display at the Kevin Eastman exhibition.
Inked panel is one sample of the fun TMNT artwork on display at the Kevin Eastman exhibition.
From sketch to finished page, visitors to the gallery can view a comic book's creative process.
From sketch to finished page, visitors to the gallery can view a comic book’s creative process.
Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, Donatello and Splinter, the Turtles’ sensei.
Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, Donatello and Splinter, the Turtles’ sensei.
Shredder, the villainous leader of the Foot Clan in New York City.
Shredder, the villainous leader of the Foot Clan in New York City.
Colorful graphic depicts Raphael, of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Colorful graphic depicts Raphael, of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Life is Art. Paint your Dreams.
Life is Art. Paint your Dreams.

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