Tag: creativity

Roald Dahl celebrated in San Diego’s Balboa Park!

Families are entertained by a story box rendition of The Magic Finger during the Roald Dahl celebration in Balboa Park.
Families are entertained by a story box rendition of The Magic Finger during the Roald Dahl celebration in Balboa Park.

Author Roald Dahl was celebrated today in Balboa Park! Who is Roald Dahl? He was the amazing writer who gave the world Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, The BFG, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Matilda, The Witches . . . and many other extraordinary stories that have been enjoyed by millions of children and adults.

Roald Dahl, who would have been a hundred years old this year, is being honored around the world in September, and Balboa Park had its own very special celebration today. The good people of Write Out Loud put the whole thing together. You might have seen my posts about various other events Write Out Loud has organized, including TwainFest in Old Town and the Moby Dick Reading Marathon on the tall ship Star of India.

I took a few photos while wandering about Balboa Park, but the most colorful ones show the story box reading of The Magic Finger on the patio outside the House of England. By the way, the story box is a form of street theatre in Japan, where it is known as Kamishibai.

Celebrating 100 years of the beloved storyteller Roald Dahl. Many readings, screenings and activities could be found around Balboa Park during this special day.
Celebrating 100 years of the beloved storyteller Roald Dahl. Many readings, screenings and activities could be found around Balboa Park during this special day.
People converge on the House of England in Balboa Park to listen to a story box telling of Dahl's fun story The Magic Finger.
People converge on the House of England in Balboa Park to listen to a story box telling of Dahl’s fun story The Magic Finger.
A good number of people, young and old, gather minutes before the reading begins. A small crowd stood off to one side.
A good number of people, young and old, gather minutes before the reading begins. A small crowd stood off to one side.
Inside the House of England, a special display provides details about Roald Dahl's life, writing and philosophy.
Inside the House of England, a special display provides details about Roald Dahl’s life, his writing and philosophy.
...Go throw your TV set away, and in its place you can install, a lovely bookcase on the wall. Roald Dahl
. . . Go throw your TV set away, and in its place you can install, a lovely bookcase on the wall. Roald Dahl
...If you have good thoughts it will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely. Roald Dahl
. . . If you have good thoughts it will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely. Roald Dahl
While I stood waiting outside the House of England among Balboa Park's International Cottages, I snapped this photo of a beautiful rose.
While I stood waiting outside the House of England among Balboa Park’s International Cottages, I snapped this photo of a beautiful rose.
Okay! The story is now underway! The young heroine has a magic finger which is activated when she sees red.
Okay! The story is now underway! The young heroine has a magic finger which is activated when she sees red.
Uh, oh! She's about to use her magic finger on a foul, nasty teacher!
Uh, oh! She’s about to use her magic finger on that foul, nasty teacher!  The teacher grows fur and a tail!
A joyful story box rendition of a clever, inventive Roald Dahl work of short fiction for children.
A joyful story box rendition of a clever, inventive Roald Dahl work of short fiction for children.
Those who don't believe in magic will never find it. Roald Dahl
Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it. Roald Dahl

…

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

I like to write short fiction, too! To read a few of my stories, please visit my other blog Short Stories by Richard.

The most amazing sand sculptures in the world!

The end of San Diego's B Street Pier is lined with amazing sand sculptures created by world masters for the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.
The end of San Diego’s B Street Pier is lined with amazing sand sculptures created by world masters for the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.

At this moment, the most amazing sand sculptures in the entire world are on display in San Diego on the B Street Pier. They were created by genuine world sand masters–many have won world championships–for the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge’s World Masters Solo Competition. The artists have come in for this big competition from countries all around the planet!

You doubt these are the most fantastic sand sculptures in the world at this very moment? Take a look at some photos! All of these sculptures will be destroyed right after the special event ends.  The day after Labor Day, these truly amazing works of art become history!

Rockin' Bobbin, by Kirk Rademaker, world sand master from Stinson Beach, California.
Rockin’ Bobbin, by Kirk Rademaker, world sand master from Stinson Beach, California.
The Rockin' Bobbin, which resembles a machine with many parts, is a wonderful example of complex sand art.
The Rockin’ Bobbin, which resembles a machine with many parts, is a wonderful example of complex sand art.
I Want To Fly, by world sand master Katsuhiko Chaen from Japan.
I Want To Fly, by world sand master Katsuhiko Chaen from Japan.
A large winged foot carved of sand appears ready to take flight.
A large winged foot carved of sand appears ready to take flight.
Armadillo Lizard, by world sand master Susanne Ruseler of the Netherlands.
Armadillo Lizard, by world sand master Susanne Ruseler of the Netherlands.
The friendly world-class sand sculptor Susanne Ruseler poses for photos by her fantastic artwork.
The friendly world-class sand sculptor Susanne Ruseler poses for photos by her fantastic artwork.
Alpha Waves, by world sand master Fergus Mulvany of Dublin, Ireland. This sculpture won second place at the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.
Alpha Waves, by world sand master Fergus Mulvany of Dublin, Ireland. This sculpture won second place at the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge.
Alpha Waves photographed from a different angle. The layered sand art is truly amazing.
Alpha Waves photographed from a different angle. The layered sand art is truly amazing.
And another photo from behind.
And another photo from behind.
Yell, by world sand master Benjamin Probanza of Mexico City.
Yell, by world sand master Benjamin Probanza of Mexico City.
An angry face yells at a graceful woman made of sand.
An angry, melting face yells at a graceful woman made of sand.
Another photo of the astonishing sand sculpture Yell.
Another photo of the astonishing sand sculpture Yell.
My Inner Self Revealed, by world sand master Melineige Beauregard of Montreal, Canada.
My Inner Self Revealed, by world sand master Melineige Beauregard of Montreal, Canada.
Peering through the amazing layered sand sculpture reveals a human form.
Peering through the amazing layered sand sculpture reveals a human form.
The tender, small inner self is revealed.
The tender, small inner self is revealed.
The Man Who Wasn't There, by world sand master Rusty Croft of Carmel, California.
The Man Who Wasn’t There, by world sand master Rusty Croft of Carmel, California.
This abstract work of sand art makes the viewer think about its potential meaning.
This abstract work of sand art makes the viewer think about its potential meaning.
A photo of the rear of this surreal sand sculpture reveals an open door.
A photo of the rear of this surreal sand sculpture reveals an open door.
Yesterday upon the stair I met a man who wasn't there he wasn't there again today Oh how I wish he'd go away...
Yesterday upon the stair I met a man who wasn’t there he wasn’t there again today Oh how I wish he’d go away…
What Is The Real Face, by world sand master Agnese Rudzite-Kirillova of Latvia.
What Is The Real Face, by world sand master Agnese Rudzite-Kirillova of Latvia.
Is this the real face, or a mask worn in public?
Is this the real face, or a mask worn in public?
What is the real face? Where is it?
What is the real face? Where is it?
Nostalgia, by world sand master Ilya Filimontsev of Moscow, Russia. This incredible sculpture won first place at the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge!
Nostalgia, by world sand master Ilya Filimontsev of Moscow, Russia. This incredible sculpture won first place at the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge!
Proof that sand sculptures can sometimes be classified as fine art.
Proof that sand sculptures can sometimes be classified as fine art.
Side view of the stunning, award-winning sand sculpture on San Diego's B Street Pier.
Side view of the stunning, award-winning sand sculpture on San Diego’s B Street Pier.
Surrender To Diversity, by world sand master Michela Ciappini of Italy.
Surrender To Diversity, by world sand master Michela Ciappini of Italy.
An unusual sand sculpture features a rabbit perched upon an upside-down alligator!
An unusual sand sculpture features a rabbit perched upon an upside-down alligator!
Out Of Reach, by world sand master Thomas Koet of Melbourne, Florida.
Out Of Reach, by world sand master Thomas Koet of Melbourne, Florida.
Many hands reach for a very beautiful woman, but she is out of reach.
Many hands reach for a very beautiful woman, but she is out of reach.
The most amazing sand sculptures in the world can be found in sunny San Diego. Until Labor Day weekend ends!
The most amazing sand sculptures in the world can be found in sunny San Diego. That is–until this Labor Day weekend ends!

…

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

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun and sometimes truly amazing photos for you to enjoy!

Cool California Carvers create sand sculpture art!

A sand sculpture representation of the famous statue Ultimate Surrender, and magical animals greet people arriving in the morning for a special festival.
A sand sculpture representation of the famous statue Ultimate Surrender and magical animals greet people arriving in the morning for a special festival.

Here are lots of photos from the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge! The Labor Day Weekend event at San Diego’s B Street Pier presents so many genuinely cool sights, I’m dividing my many photographs into two blog posts.

This first batch features a sand sculpture near the entrance to the event, plus one sponsored sculpture. The remaining sculptures you will see here, which are completely amazing, were being finished this morning by local Southern California teams. This particular competition is between Cool California Carvers!

My next post will feature fine art sand sculptures created by the world’s best sand artists that will blow your mind, so stand by!

During the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge, San Diego is transformed into "SAND iego"!
During the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge, San Diego is transformed into “SAND iego”!
Inside the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge on the B Street Pier, food trucks, vendors with art, and some sponsored sand sculptures attract the eye of visitors.
Inside the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge on the B Street Pier, food trucks, vendors with art, and some sponsored sand sculptures attract the eye of visitors.
This way to the Cool California Carvers, who on Saturday morning are still working on their sand sculptures. We'll check out the World Masters Solo Competition in my next blog post!
This way to the Cool California Carvers, who on Saturday morning are still working on their sand sculptures. We’ll check out the World Masters Solo Competition in my next blog post!
Looking down the length of the B Street Pier near the San Diego Cruise Ship Terminal. These artists you see are some teams representing the Cool California Carvers.
Looking down the length of the B Street Pier between the Broadway Pier Port Pavilion and the San Diego Cruise Ship Terminal. These artists you see belong to teams representing the Cool California Carvers.
Magnify It! That's the name of this complex three-part sand sculpture, being built by the Sand Squirrels and SD Sand Castles.
Magnify It! That’s the name of this complex three-part sand sculpture, being built by the Sand Squirrels and SD Sand Castles.
Peer through the telescope-like eyepiece and you see a peace sign superimposed on planet Earth!
Peer through the telescope-like eyepiece and you see a peace sign superimposed on planet Earth!
These creative people are the I.B. Posse. Their sand sculpture is titled United We Stand.
These creative people are the I.B. Posse. Their sand sculpture is titled United We Stand. I see they are working from a small model.
Talented sand sculptors work on the flaming torch from New York's Statue of Liberty.
Talented sand sculptors work on the flaming torch from New York’s Statue of Liberty.
Carving the base of Lady Liberty's torch.
Carving the base of Lady Liberty’s torch.
Reaching upward together with peaceful aspirations.
Reaching upward together with peaceful aspirations.
Team Archisand is creating an unusual sand sculpture called REAL-EYE'z.
Team Archisand is creating an unusual sand sculpture called REAL-EYE’z Your Futur.
Small people stand together behind a mask-like face made of sand.
Small people stand together behind a mask-like face made of sand.
Many of these fantastic works of sand art really catch the eye!
Many of these fantastic works of sand art really catch the eye! We’ve got some great local teams!
This sand sculpture seems to recreate a coral reef. I don't know its title. I do know Team San Diego San Castles created it!
This sand sculpture seems to recreate a coral reef. I don’t know its title. I do know Team San Diego San Castles created it!
A close-up photo of some marine life living in a coral reef made of carved sand--on a pier!
A close-up photo of some marine life living in a coral reef made of carved sand–on a pier!
A team called The Sandcastle Man is bringing some Crazy Dreams into reality. Yes, that's the name of this sand sculpture.
A team called The Sandcastle Man is bringing some Crazy Dreams into reality. Yes, that’s the name of this sand sculpture.
We're All Mad Here! It must be an Alice in Wonderland themed sand sculpture! I see a team member of Archisand.
We’re All Mad Here! It must be an Alice in Wonderland themed sand sculpture! I see a team member of Archisand.
I see Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter!
I see Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter!
Visitors to the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge check out artwork being created by one Cool California Carvers team.
Visitors to the 2016 U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge check out artwork being created by one of the Cool California Carvers teams.
And that team is called The Sand Squirrels. The title of this cool art is The Captain's Tale.
And that team is called The Sand Squirrels. The title of this cool art is The Captain’s Tale.
That sea-going captain appears to be a pirate who has discovered a treasure chest. Or perhaps it's a mirage made of beach sand on some deserted island...or a city pier!
That sea-going captain appears to be a pirate who has discovered a treasure chest. Or perhaps it’s a mirage made of beach sand on some deserted island…or on a city pier!

…

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

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos (including amazing sand sculptures) for you to enjoy!

Three achievements that have touched many people.

smiley-face-widened

I haven’t walked or blogged much in the past few weeks. I’m a bit under the weather. I’ll try to get out on Sunday to find something interesting!

I’ve been thinking differently about Cool San Diego Sights lately. So many hours have been spent–mostly pleasurable ones–in building my blog. But what does all this effort amount to? I enjoy walking and making cool discoveries. It feels good to preserve and share those discoveries. And to spread some sunshine. Happiness in this troubled old world is a good thing.

I enjoy the interaction with other bloggers and people on social media, even if I only sit at my computer for a short while each day.

I enjoy the occasional surprises, such as being contacted by artists and others whose work I’ve documented. That is really amazing!

I’ve also been fortunate in rare instances to do some significant good, or touch people in a way that can make a real difference. There are three achievements in particular that I thought might be worth sharing again.

The first was helping in a small way to uncover an important part of San Diego and United States Navy history. The Navy Bicentennial Commemorative Plaque is on public display on the Greatest Generation Walk, a few steps from the USS Midway Museum, and it is passed by thousands of people every day. But it seemed all knowledge of its origin had been lost. I merely posted a plea: help solve a mystery! And, mysteriously, thanks to the magic of the internet–and perhaps word of mouth–over time information trickled in. Finally I was sent several amazing old photographs of the plaque’s creators and its forging, and a typewritten article revealing the details of its origin. I titled that post Creating a plaque: Navy history in San Diego revealed!

A second achievement, the one that probably makes the biggest difference in the lives of people, was a post I wrote about how to help the homeless in San Diego. I am absolutely astonished at how almost every single day, people coming to my blog click the links to the charities and organizations that strive to assist the homeless. There have been hundreds of clicks. I seldom ask my readers to share anything on my blog, but if you are so inclined, I titled that post 20 Ways To Help the Homeless in San Diego.

And finally, I wrote a short story that seems to have touched many deeply. It has even gone a bit viral in surprising places all around the world. It’s about how to change the world. I titled that post A short story to make you smile and cry. Realizing short stories don’t really fit on a photo blog about San Diego, I created another blog for my short works of fiction. If you like to read, perhaps click Short Stories by Richard.

Thank you all for following Cool San Diego Sights. This blogging thing is a strange, mysterious undertaking. Hundreds of visitors each day, from everywhere around the planet, most coming from search engines, and I have no idea who those people are. The whole experience has changed my life in far too many ways to mention.  For the better!  When I first started the blog, I had no notion that I would arrive here.

Well, hopefully on to more adventures! Have a great rest of the weekend!

Even more random street art in North Park!

Part of a spray paint street mural in North Park by artists Maxx Moses and Glow.
Part of a spray paint street mural in North Park by artists Maxx Moses and Glow.

Here are even more photos of random street art that I’ve encountered during walks through North Park!

I’ve already covered many amazing street murals in the neighborhood. You can find those by surfing around my blog, clicking related articles, tags or performing a search in the sidebar. Cool San Diego Sights contains hundreds of San Diego street art photos that you might enjoy!

North Park utility box depicts meditating figure.
North Park utility box depicts meditating figure.
Many utility boxes in North Park (like other San Diego neighborhoods) have been enlivened with colorful street art. This box has the word SOAK and some tentacles.
Many utility boxes in North Park (like other San Diego neighborhoods) have been enlivened with colorful street art. This box has the word SOAK and some tentacles.
Lightning inside a deadhead skull separates night from day. Urban art on a shop located on North Park's University Avenue.
Lightning inside a deadhead skull separates night from day. Urban art on a shop located on North Park’s University Avenue.
Huge glowing crystals grow from a North Park sidewalk!
Huge glowing crystals grow from a North Park sidewalk!
More creatively decorated utility boxes along University Avenue in North Park.
More creatively decorated utility boxes along University Avenue in North Park.
Unusual artwork near a building's rooftop features alien-like creatures with three eyes.
Unusual artwork near a building’s rooftop features alien-like creatures with three eyes.
A cool sun with mustache above some prickly pear cacti.
A cool sun with mustache above some prickly pear cacti.
A young person holding binoculars seems to watch the people of North Park.
A young person holding binoculars seems to watch the people of North Park.
These artistic cubes are fun seats for people waiting for the bus.
These artistic cubes are fun seats for people waiting for the bus.
One unique utility box has four sides featuring subterranean slices. West shows where land meets Pacific Ocean.
One unique utility box has four sides featuring subterranean slices. West shows where land meets Pacific Ocean.
Bienvenidos! South shows the border with nearby Mexico.
Bienvenidos! South shows the border with nearby Mexico.
East shows the desert, which lies beyond our mountains.
East shows the desert, which lies beyond our mountains.
North depicts a small, happy home in North Park.
North depicts a small, happy home in North Park.
Just walking along the sidewalk, past a creatively decorated transformer box.
Just walking along the sidewalk, past a creatively decorated transformer box.
Turning a corner past pink and yellow cats.
Turning a corner past pink and yellow cats.
Utility box on 30th Street has tropical palm trees, flowers, fish and a skull.
Utility box on 30th Street has tropical palm trees, flowers, fish and a skull.
Newspaper box covered top to bottom with decals.
Newspaper box covered top to bottom with decals.
Graffiti near shop door includes a sexy lady.
Graffiti near shop door includes a sexy lady.
A typical scene on one sidewalk that stretches down 30th Street in North Park.
A typical scene on one sidewalk that stretches down 30th Street in North Park.
Street art in North Park shows a woman walking through the city.
Street art in North Park shows a woman walking through the city.
In hip, laid-back North Park, an appropriate slogan: r.i.p. bullshit
In easy-going, laid-back North Park, an appropriate slogan: r.i.p. bullshit

…

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

A mighty Poetic Expeditionary Nation of Semanticists!

The five members of The Mightier P.E.N.S. perform poetry in Balboa Park's Zoro Garden during this summer's 2016 Garden Theatre Festival.
The five members of The Mightier P.E.N.S. perform poetry in Balboa Park’s Zoro Garden during this summer’s 2016 Garden Theatre Festival.

Look what I stumbled upon this afternoon during my stroll through Balboa Park! The Mightier P.E.N.S. (Poetic Expeditionary Nation of Semanticists) was performing poetry in the Zoro Garden. Balboa Park’s butterfly-filled stone grotto is the venue for a variety of poetic and theatrical performances during the Garden Theatre Festival, Saturdays and Sundays through August 21st.

I listened as the five members of The Mightier P.E.N.S. filled the air with mightily expressed emotion, striking deep chords with their words. As butterflies flitted about the garden, like beguiling not-quite-touchable-truths in the shimmering air, their spoken words conveyed an entire range of deep feeling, including human desire, elation, frustration and despair.

This energetic group of performance poets can be heard around San Diego from time to time; they appeared at the most recent San Diego Fringe Festival. They’ll be performing twice more this summer in Balboa Park. Interested? Swing by the Zoro Garden on August 14th and 21nd at 2pm. Their poetry is mightier than the sharpest sword! For further information, you can call (619) 569-4922.

While I innocently sit back and listen, I'm suddenly accosted by unabashed truths spoken during an innovative poetry performance!
While I innocently sit back and listen, I’m suddenly accosted by unabashed truths spoken during an innovative poetry performance!
Visitors to Balboa Park pause near the top of Zoro Garden and listen to The Mighty P.E.N.S. conquer . . . for a fleeting moment.
Visitors to Balboa Park pause near the top of Zoro Garden and listen to The Mightier P.E.N.S. conquer the world . . . for a fleeting moment.
One of the dynamic poets expresses innermost thoughts, desires and anguish with strong words and images pieced brilliantly together.
One of the dynamic poets expresses innermost thoughts, desires and anguish with strong words and images pieced brilliantly together.
A small crowd gathered where I was seated. As each poet completed a segment of the performance, applause erupted.
A small crowd gathered where I was seated. As each poet completed a segment of the performance, applause erupted.
The Mighty P.E.N.S. appear to be mighty friends. No words required.
The Mightier P.E.N.S. appear to be mighty friends. No words required.

…

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 blog which I call Beautiful Balboa Park!

To read some philosophical short stories that I’ve written, please click Short Stories by Richard.

Signs in San Diego contain quotes from modern artists.

Unusual signs near America Plaza contain quotes from famous modern artists. This thought-provoking art was installed by the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, located across the street.
Unusual signs near America Plaza contain quotes from famous modern artists. This thought-provoking art was installed by the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, which is located across the street.

Look what I discovered this evening! I had disembarked from the trolley at the Santa Fe Depot and was making my way to America Plaza when my eyes were ensnared by a very cool sight.

At first glance I thought it was a cluster of directional signs that point every which way to cities around the world. Then I realized these signs were far more interesting!

On one side each sign contains a thought-provoking quote from a modern artist. The cities shown on the reverse side are those associated with the artists.

The modern artists quoted are: Pablo Picasso, Jeff Wall, Jackson Pollock, John Baldessari, Jose Clemente Orozco, Edward Ruscha, Joseph Beuys, Richard Diebenkorn, Henri-Robert-Marcel Duchamp and Eleanor Antin.

I walked back across Kettner Boulevard to the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego and learned that these unusual signs were installed by the museum about two weeks ago!

People walk down the sidewalk along Kettner Boulevard. A few glance up at what appears to be a cluster of strangely colorful directional street signs.
People walk down the sidewalk along Kettner Boulevard. A few glance up at what appears to be a cluster of strangely colorful directional street signs.
Quotes from ten notable modern artists are featured on the MCASD signs. The reverse side of each directional sign contains a city associated with the artist.
Quotes from ten notable modern artists are featured on the MCASD signs. The reverse side of each directional sign contains a city associated with the artist.
Provocative public art rises from a downtown sidewalk, across the street from the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.
Provocative public art rises from a downtown sidewalk, across the street from the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.

…

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

Early American quilts: amazing color and patterns!

Carpenter's Wheel quilt, Mennonite, about 1890. Made by Mrs. Miller in Easton, Pennsylvania.
Carpenter’s Wheel quilt, Mennonite, about 1890. Made by Mrs. Miller in Easton, Pennsylvania.

My eyes opened wide with amazement last weekend, when my docent friend provided another special tour at the San Diego Museum of Art. This time we had a good look at a surprising exhibition of early American quilts from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

These quilts, which date mostly from the 19th century, created in many instances by lone Amish and Mennonite quiltmakers, are so dazzling with brilliant colors and inventive, abstract designs that they seem thoroughly modern, like hung works of art by the greatest 20th century Abstract Expressionists.

I know relatively little about quiltmaking.  All I know is that when I gazed at these vibrant works of art, I felt that I was peering into the inner life of a spiritual people, where joy, memories and dreams are represented with magically combined bits of color. These delights for the eye were created to be a warming family treasure, meant to last for generations.

In this blog post you can see just a few photos of the nearly 50 quilts on display. The craftmanship is intricate. I can’t imagine the many hours of persistent dedication, patience and love a quiltmaker required to create just one of these examples. They lived in a very different time and place. In their world living was more simple, and beauty was quietly formed from single threads.

All of these old quilts were discovered over several decades by collectors Gerald Roy and Paul Pilgrim, who also played an important role in the creation of the The National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Kentucky. Many of these quilts were collected solely for their aesthetic appeal. Paul Pilgrim, now deceased, was also an innovative quiltmaker.

Head to Balboa Park to visit the San Diego Museum of Art and you’ll be astounded by many of these quilts. If you do plan to visit, do so by September 5, 2016, when this very unique exhibition comes to an end.

Quilts and Color from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. This special exhibition can be enjoyed at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.
Quilts and Color from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. This special exhibition can be enjoyed at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.
Amazing early American quilts on display at the San Diego Museum of Art feature beautifully contrasted colors and abstract designs.
Amazing early American quilts on display at the San Diego Museum of Art feature beautifully contrasted colors and fascinating abstract designs.
Spider Web quilt dazzles the eye. Many of the quilts feature unique visual effects or optical illusions.
Spider Web quilt dazzles the eye. Many of the quilts feature unique visual effects or optical illusions.
Fans quilt, Amish, 1900-1910. Made in Pennsylvania.
Fans quilt, Amish, 1900-1910. Made in Pennsylvania.
Field of Diamonds quilt, about 1860. The design is achieved by creatively combining hexagons.
Field of Diamonds quilt, about 1860. The design is achieved by creatively combining differently colored hexagons.
Close-up photograph of fantastic Sunburst quilt.
Close-up photograph of fantastic, radiant Sunburst quilt.

…

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

To read a few thoughtful stories I’ve written, click Short Stories by Richard.

More photos of super creative cosplay at Comic-Con!

It's a cosplay of Lego Venom in the middle of the 2016 San Diego Comic-Con crowd!
It’s a cosplay of Lego Venom in the middle of the 2016 San Diego Comic-Con crowd!

Here’s another large collection of cosplay photographs! I took these Saturday outside 2016 San Diego Comic-Con!

Seeing so many super creative costumes is one reason I love walking around during Comic-Con. It’s an opportunity for individuals to find unabashed joy in their own personal creativity. It’s all about fantasy and imagination come to life. People young and old can choose to be whatever they choose to be. It’s all good. And it’s all fun!

This cool cosplay of a Cylon from the original Battlestar Galactica even had a moving red light in its helmet and sound effects!
This cosplay of a Cylon from the original Battlestar Galactica had a moving red light in its helmet and cool Cylon sound effects!
A great cosplay of Marvel's famous superhero couple, Ant-Man and the Wasp.
A great cosplay of Marvel’s famous superhero couple, Ant-Man and the Wasp.
A truly great Addams Family cosplay on the street outside Comic-Con!
A truly great Addams Family cosplay on the street outside Comic-Con!
I was told these ladies are characters from Alice in Wonderland. It appears to me one is the Queen of Hearts and the other Alice.
I was told these ladies are characters from Alice in Wonderland. It appears to me one is the Queen of Hearts and the other is Alice.
This cuddly killer is Unipool. He's even got his own hashtag!
This cuddly killer is Unipool. He’s even got his own hashtag!
I recognize Green Arrow, but the other cosplay I didn't hear properly when I asked. Does someone out there know? Leave a comment if you do.
I recognize Green Arrow, but the other cosplay I didn’t hear properly when I asked. Does someone out there know? Leave a comment if you do.
I learned the cosplay on the right is Megaman, but I didn't catch the identity of the fellow on the left. Help!
I learned the cosplay on the right is Mega Man, but I didn’t catch the identity of the fellow on the left. Help!
Cosplay of Raven of the Teen Titans.
Cosplay of Raven of the Teen Titans.
Cool cosplay of a Jawa from Star Wars.
A very cool cosplay of a Jawa from Star Wars.
This creative guy combined Joker and Donald Trump!
This funny guy combined Joker and Donald Trump!
A zombie walks through the Gaslamp with a big pink ribbon. Even the undead can fight for life!
A zombie walks through the Gaslamp with a big pink ribbon. Even the undead can fight for life!
It took a moment, but then I realized these guys looked familiar. That's Crow T. Robot from Mystery Science Theater on the right, and Tom Servo on the left!
It took a moment, but then I realized these little guys were familiar. That’s Crow T. Robot from Mystery Science Theater on the right, and Tom Servo on the left!
Menacing cosplay of Cobra Commander.
Menacing cosplay of Cobra Commander.
It's Pac-Man and a small Blinky!
It’s Pac-Man and a small Blinky!
A super creative cosplay of a steampunk Batman.
A super creative cosplay of a steampunk Batman.
I hope the zombies rampaging through the Gaslamp Saturday night were careful. Because these guys wanna kill zombies.
I hope the zombies rampaging through the Gaslamp Saturday night were careful. Because these guys wanna kill zombies.
This cosplayer seemed a bit surprised that I recognized he was the Mouth of Sauron. I guess I've read and watched Lord of the Rings too many times.
This cosplayer seemed a bit surprised that I recognized he was the Mouth of Sauron. I guess I’ve read and watched Lord of the Rings too many times.
I learned these guys are cosplaying characters from the video game Fallout.
I learned these guys are cosplaying characters from the video game Fallout.
A fun, creative cosplay of characters from the Nightmare Before Christmas.
A fun, creative cosplay of characters from The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Here comes Spidey!
Here comes Spidey!
These nice ladies were cosplaying Toriel and Frisk from Undertale.
These nice ladies were cosplaying Toriel and Frisk from Undertale.
I think I heard this is a Pokemon cosplay. I might be wrong.
I think I heard this is a Pokemon cosplay. I might be wrong.
These Medieval period enthusiasts hail from the Barony of Calafia. They are members of the Society for Creative Anachronism.
These Medieval period enthusiasts hail from the Barony of Calafia. They are members of the Society for Creative Anachronism.
Incredible cosplay of Ornstein the Dragon Slayer, from Dark Souls.
Incredible cosplay of Ornstein the Dragon Slayer, from Dark Souls.
Another super good cosplay. It's Cable of the X-Men.
Another super good cosplay. It’s Cable of the X-Men.
Some really great costumes--all characters from Game of Thrones.
Some really great costumes–all characters from Game of Thrones.
Hey, Cap! What's up?
Hey, Cap! What’s up?
I was told this cosplay is Tyson Rios, of Army of Two.
I was told this cosplay is Tyson Rios, of Army of Two.
Super good cosplay of Marvel's Lady Sif, Asgardian warrior. Looks like the Jack Kirby version.
Super creative cosplay of Marvel’s Lady Sif, Asgardian warrior. Looks like the Jack Kirby version.
This cosplay, I believe, is Victarion Greyjoy, from Game of Thrones.
This cosplay, I believe, is Victarion Greyjoy, from Game of Thrones.
The Suicide Squad movie is coming up. This is the original Harley Quinn with an absurdly huge hammer. A little more humor in this version, perhaps.
The Suicide Squad movie is coming up. This is the original Harley Quinn with an absurdly huge hammer. A little more humor in this version, perhaps.
Cosplay of long-time movie hero Zorro!
Cosplay of long-time movie hero Zorro!
Cosplay from the original Tron. He thought the first movie was best.
Cosplay from the original Tron. He thought the first movie was best.
I was informed this is just a fun fuzzy creature with long ears!
I was informed this is just a purple fuzzy creature with long ears!  Even so, it looks somehow familiar.
Cosplay of Liliana Vess, from Magic: The Gathering.
Cosplay of Liliana Vess, from Magic: The Gathering.
This Poison Ivy cosplayer must've mistaken me for Batman, because she's blowing a kiss my way!
This Poison Ivy cosplayer must’ve mistaken me for Batman, because she’s blowing a lethal kiss my way!
Now a cosplay Catwoman is about to strike me with her whip! Ouch!
Now a cosplay Catwoman is about to strike me with her whip! Ouch!
These musicians in wild Mexican outfits were simply having fun entertaining 2016 San Diego Comic-Con fans in the Gaslamp.
These musicians in wild Mexican outfits were simply having fun entertaining 2016 San Diego Comic-Con fans in the Gaslamp.
Here comes a cool cosplay of Cyclops. Don't activate your visor! I'm a good guy!
Here comes a cool cosplay of Cyclops. Don’t activate your visor! I’m a good guy!

…

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

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!

Photographs of cosplay at San Diego Comic-Con!

Post-Apocalyptic Super Mario Brothers cosplay at 2016 San Diego Comic-Con.
Post-Apocalyptic Super Mario Brothers cosplay at 2016 San Diego Comic-Con.

The tradition of cosplay–costume play– during San Diego Comic-Con is alive and well! As proof, I offer these cool photos that I took today!

I was completely blown away by the lengths fans will go to create the fantastic likeness of a favorite fictional character. How many of these characters do you recognize?

Many pop culture fans attending San Diego Comic-Con engage in cosplay--wearing costumes depicting characters from comic books, movies, television shows and video games.
I see Iron Fist coming up the stairs!  Many pop culture fans attending San Diego Comic-Con engage in cosplay–wearing costumes depicting characters from comic books, movies, television shows and video games.
A fantastic cosplay of Elemental HERO Avian of Yu-Gi-Oh!
A fantastic cosplay of Elemental HERO Avian of Yu-Gi-Oh!
Cosplay of an armored player in the popular video game Halo.
Cosplay of an armored player in the popular video game Halo.
Ghostbusters cosplay at San Diego Comic-Con.
Ghostbusters cosplay at San Diego Comic-Con.
Cosplay of a sinister character from the Star Wars universe, Darth Revan.
Cosplay of a sinister character from the Star Wars universe, Darth Revan.
Cosplay enthusiasts stand by during a local television interview outside San Diego Comic-Con.
Cosplay enthusiasts stand by during a local television interview outside 2016 San Diego Comic-Con.
As I sauntered down a Gaslamp sidewalk, Bane refused to let me pass! Just some of the fun at 2016 Comic-Con.
As I sauntered down a Gaslamp sidewalk, Bane refused to let me pass! Just some of the fun at 2016 Comic-Con.
Hulk must be hungry, because now he'll smash for food!
Hulk must be hungry, because now he’ll smash for food!
Cosplay of Bombshell Batwoman, from a line of new comic books published by DC Comics. The stories take place during World War II.
Cosplay of Bombshell Batwoman, from a line of new comic books published by DC Comics. The stories take place during World War II.
An elaborate cosplay of Loki, a favorite Marvel supervillain.
An elaborate cosplay of Loki, a favorite Marvel supervillain.
While I can't identify many of the characters that walk by during Comic-Con, I definitely enjoy the creativity.
While I can’t identify many of the characters that walk by during Comic-Con, I definitely enjoy the creativity.
This guy informed me his cosplay is the Borderlands character Krieg the Psycho.
This guy informed me his cosplay is the Borderlands character Krieg the Psycho.
Krypto, Superman's faithful super dog, has made a new friend at San Diego Comic-Con!
Krypto, Superman’s faithful super dog, has made a new friend at San Diego Comic-Con!
People engaged in cosplay pose for a photo. They are characters from the game Moba Legends.
People engaged in fun cosplay pose for a photo. They are characters from the game Moba Legends.
This guy just decided to invent a cool character with creepy steampunk elements for Comic-Con.
This guy just decided to invent a unique character with creepy steampunk elements for Comic-Con.
Cosplay outside 2016 San Diego Comic-Con, depicting characters from the blockbuster television show Game of Thrones.
Cosplay outside 2016 San Diego Comic-Con, depicting characters from the blockbuster television show Game of Thrones.
Cosplay of Storm, a fan favorite member of the X-Men.
Cosplay of Storm, a fan favorite member of the X-Men.
Cosplay of Green Arrow, DC hero and member of the Justice League.
Cosplay of Green Arrow, DC superhero and member of the Justice League.
An awesome, very elaborate cosplay of Super Shredder, from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
An awesome, very elaborate cosplay of Super Shredder, from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
I learned these elegant ladies are the Clowns of the Galaxy, with their red-haired Robot. Never heard of them! Looks to me like they were simply having a great time at Comic-Con!
I learned these elegant ladies are the Clowns of the Galaxy, with their red-haired Robot. Never heard of them! Looks to me like they were simply having a great time at Comic-Con!
A big smile. Cosplay of Gamora, of the Guardians of the Galaxy.
A big smile. Cosplay of Gamora, of the Guardians of the Galaxy.

…

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

You can easily explore Cool San Diego Sights by using the search box on my blog’s sidebar. Or click a tag! There are thousands upon thousands of fun photos for you to enjoy!