Tag: fun

Cool cosplay and fun outside San Diego Comic-Con.

I'm given a hearty greeting by the Mighty Thor. Last year this awesome guy cosplayed as Batman.
I’m given a hearty greeting by the Mighty Thor. Last year this awesome guy cosplayed as Batman.

Here’s a bunch of fun photos showing activity outside the convention center during 2015 San Diego Comic-Con. There’s so much to see, to absorb, one could happily spend hours just walking around. Most of these pics are from this evening–Thursday. A few are from Wednesday.

Visitors to Horton Plaza are invited to become colorful superheroes during San Diego Comic-Con.
Visitors to Horton Plaza are invited to become colorful superheroes during San Diego Comic-Con.
Just inside door of Spreckels Theater Building where Conan O'Brien audience picks up tickets.
Just inside door of Spreckels Theater Building where Conan O’Brien audience picks up tickets.
Snoopy with granny glasses peers from Gaslamp shop window.
Snoopy with granny glasses peers from Gaslamp shop window.
Poster in Gaslamp advertises William Shatner's Man O' War.
Poster in Gaslamp advertises William Shatner’s Man O’ War.
Entertainment Weekly had lots of people posing for photographs. Superheroes of San Diego!
Entertainment Weekly had lots of people posing for photographs. Superheroes of San Diego!
It does indeed look like Fear Begins Here.
It does indeed look like Fear Begins Here.
Video board promotes exciting NBC television programming in Gaslamp Square.
Video board promotes exciting NBC television programming in Gaslamp Square.
Heroes Reborn venue had huge images of the powerful characters around the black structure.
Heroes Reborn venue had huge images of the powerful characters around the black structure.
Their biggest mistake was betting against him. The Player. Thursdays this Fall on NBC.
Their biggest mistake was betting against him. The Player. Thursdays this Fall on NBC.
Photo of crowd swarming across Harbor Drive and trolley tracks between San Diego Convention Center and Gaslamp Square.
Photo of crowd crossing Harbor Drive and trolley tracks between San Diego Convention Center and Gaslamp Square.
LEGO Bane is on the wall of the Hard Rock Hotel!
LEGO Bane is on the wall of the Hard Rock Hotel!
The cosmic wrap and astronaut figure on the Hard Rock Hotel building advertises The Expanse, coming soon on SyFy.
The cosmic wrap and astronaut figure on the Hard Rock Hotel building advertises The Expanse, coming soon on Syfy.
Ladies in Sharknado 3 shark heads hold signs indicating It's Your Patriotic Duty to Embrace the 'Nado!
Ladies in Sharknado 3 shark heads hold signs indicating It’s Your Patriotic Duty to Embrace the ‘Nado!
The downright silly new Colonel Sanders is shown as a unicorn standing by Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade.
The downright silly new Colonel Sanders is shown as a unicorn standing by Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade.
Awesome cosplay in downtown San Diego for 2015 Comic-Con. Three against one! I don't have a chance!
Awesome cosplay in downtown San Diego for 2015 Comic-Con. Three against one! I don’t have a chance!
A large troop of Colony soldiers marches down Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade during Comic-Con.
A large troop of Colony soldiers marches down Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade during Comic-Con.
Schick offered free shaves near the Assassin's Creed obstacle course. Schick has partnered with software developer Ubisoft.
Schick offered free shaves near the Assassin’s Creed obstacle course. Schick has partnered with software developer Ubisoft.
You, get in here! It seems everyone is trying to attract the attention of thousands of Comic-Con attendees.
You, get in here! It seems everyone is trying to attract the attention of thousands of Comic-Con attendees.
Webtoon. Long live comics!
Webtoon. Long live comics!
People dine at the Tin Fish, which is completely wrapped in NBC Blindspot graphics. A mind erased. A body of clues.
People dine at the Tin Fish, which is completely wrapped in NBC Blindspot graphics. A mind erased. A body of clues.
It's LEGO Homer Simpson! He's equipped with some tough-looking Transformer-like armor, which includes Wonder Woman and Gollum on top!
It’s LEGO Homer Simpson! He’s equipped with some tough-looking Transformer-like armor, which includes Wonder Woman and Gollum on top!
These suited bald guys with barcode tattoos on their necks are lined up to promote Hitman, Agent 47.
These suited bald guys with barcode tattoos on their necks are lined up to promote Hitman: Agent 47.
It looks like Hulk shrank a bit!
It looks like Hulk shrank a bit!
Obi-Wan Kenobi seemed to have the situation in hand. That's a pretty big crowd passing by, however, and I've seen a number of nasty-looking villains!
Obi-Wan Kenobi seemed to have the situation in hand. That’s a pretty big crowd passing by, however, and I’ve seen a number of nasty-looking villains!
You scream, I scream, the Scream Queens serve ice cream!
You scream, I scream, the Scream Queens serve ice cream!
This huge super cool robot is called MegaBot. It arrived near Petco Park for Comic-Con on Wednesday.
This huge super cool robot is called MegaBot. It arrived near Petco Park for Comic-Con on Wednesday.
Dark Souls III has a cool backdrop at the Comic-Con Interactive Zone next to Petco Park. Can these guys remove the sword from the stone wall.
Dark Souls III has a cool backdrop at the Comic-Con Interactive Zone next to Petco Park. Can these guys remove the sword from the stone wall?
Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse is an upcoming movie, and a fun venue in the Interactive Zone.
Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse is an upcoming movie, and a fun venue in the Interactive Zone.
Darth Vader challenged me to a light saber duel. I declined. I like my limbs.
Darth Vader challenged me to a light saber duel. I declined. I like my limbs.
Inflatable slides at the Comic-Con Interactive Zone were set up to promote The Peanuts Movie.
Inflatable slides at the Comic-Con Interactive Zone were set up to promote The Peanuts Movie.
Is that Snow White smiling at me. Don't bite that apple!
Is that Snow White smiling at me? Don’t bite that apple!
That is either a Spartan, a Trojan, or a guy who likes USC football.
That is either a Spartan, a Trojan, or a guy who likes USC football.
Batman has seen enough of this rabble. He's looking grim and determined to do something.
Batman has seen enough of this rabble. He’s looking grim and determined to do something.
Stoop Kid's afraid to leave his stoop. Or remove his Star Trek uniform.
Stoop Kid’s afraid to leave his stoop. Or perhaps remove a Star Trek uniform.
As the evening progresses and the FX Fearless Arena Experience closes for the day, Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll are abandoned.
As the evening progresses and the FX Fearless Arena Experience closes for the day, Sex, Drugs and Rock and Roll are abandoned.
Archer graphic in the Hilton Bayfront Park.
Archer graphic in the Hilton Bayfront Park.
American Horror Story Hotel has closed for the day and a video photographer exits. Was it too scary for him.
American Horror Story Hotel has closed for the day and a video photographer exits. Was it too scary for him?
Model grabs at swirling dollar bills in window of American Horror Story Hotel while being filmed.
Model grabs at swirling dollar bills in window of American Horror Story Hotel while being filmed.
Kid checks out vacant entrance to the Bastard Executioner venue. Escape the forest duel.
Kid checks out vacant entrance to the Bastard Executioner venue. Escape the forest duel!
I'm guessing this passage near the exit is where thrill-seekers escape the forest duel.
I’m guessing this passage near the exit is where thrill-seekers escape the forest duel.
Upside down Louie seems to wait in line for Hall H with thousands of Comic-Con fans. They'll be sleeping outside all night on the grass or concrete. That's dedication!
Upside down Louie seems to wait in line for Hall H with thousands of Comic-Con fans. They’ll be sleeping outside all night on the grass or concrete. That’s dedication!
Hunkering down for a long wait behind the San Diego Convention Center. These guys are near the Adult Swim carnival.
Hunkering down for a long wait behind the San Diego Convention Center. These guys are near the Adult Swim carnival.
Now that's a lot of people waiting to see panels in Hall H tomorrow. And there are more behind me!
Now that’s a lot of people waiting to see panels in Hall H tomorrow. And there are many more behind me!
Folks riding a unicorn prepare to launch above the Omni Hotel into the cloudy blue sky, over a gigantic bubble resting on the grass!
Folks riding a unicorn prepare to launch above the Omni Hotel into the cloudy blue sky, over a gigantic bubble resting on the grass!
That bubble is actually a huge, working snow globe promoting Fargo. The Waffle Hut is inside!
That bubble is actually a huge, working snow globe promoting Fargo. The Waffle Hut is inside!
Oh, dear. More zombies on the loose.
Oh, dear. More zombies on the loose.
Time to head back across Harbor Drive as the day ends. Even a pair of Leias have to eat dinner.
Time to head back across Harbor Drive as the day ends. Even a pair of Leias have to eat dinner.
Looking down from Harbor Drive bridge at San Diego rail yard and a bus with Game of Thrones wrap turning about.
Looking down from Harbor Drive bridge at San Diego rail yard and a bus with Game of Thrones wrap turning about.
Everybody had a great time. Day 1 of San Diego Comic-Con is coming to a close.
Everybody had a great time. Day 1 of San Diego Comic-Con is coming to a close.
A couple slowly walks along after a busy day. That's one gigantic swag bag!
A couple slowly walks along after a busy day. That’s one gigantic swag bag!

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Photos of San Diego Comic-Con preparation: 2 days to go!

Stunning white face stares from Petco Park across Harbor Drive. Nobody attending 2015 San Diego Comic-Con could possibly miss this!
Stunning white face stares from Petco Park across Harbor Drive. Nobody attending 2015 San Diego Comic-Con could possibly miss this advertisement!

Now just a bit over two days to go until 2015 San Diego Comic-Con officially opens!

I walked early and late yesterday around the convention center and Gaslamp. Workers were busy all over the place getting stuff ready.

For your enjoyment, I present another batch of photos showing all sorts of cool sights!

Once Upon a Time building wrap on Petco Park. Evil isn't born. It's made.
Once Upon a Time building wrap on Petco Park. Evil isn’t born. It’s made.
A local television news reporter stands near entrance to the Gaslamp, previewing 2015 Comic-Con on camera.
A local television reporter stands near entrance to the Gaslamp, previewing 2015 Comic-Con on camera for the evening news.
Is that legendary cartoonist and animator Chuck Jones? No. But it's his namesake gallery on Fifth Avenue, open and ready for fans of classic pop culture and cool art.
Is that legendary cartoonist and animator Chuck Jones? No. But it’s his namesake gallery on Fifth Avenue, open and ready for fans of classic pop culture and cool art.
Analog in the Gaslamp Quarter has a 20 percent discount on food for Comic-Con attendees with badge.
Analog in the Gaslamp Quarter has a 20 percent discount on food for Comic-Con attendees with badge.
More Analog fun . . . Cosplay Super Karaoke! I didn't know Han, Luke and Leia had formed a musical trio.
More Analog fun . . . Cosplay Super Karaoke! I didn’t know Han, Luke and Leia had formed a musical trio.
Half of a large wrap applied to Hard Rock Hotel building. Resembles the Ascension graphics from last year.
Half of a large wrap applied to Hard Rock Hotel building. Resembles the Ascension graphics from last year.
Other half of the cosmic, purple wrap. I see an asteroid field and spaceship.
Other half of the cosmic, purple wrap. I see an asteroid field and spaceship.
I see Lego Dimensions characters Superman, Batman and Gandalf in this graphic on the Hard Rock Hotel.
I see Lego Dimensions characters Superman, Batman and Gandalf in this graphic on the Hard Rock Hotel.
More Lego Dimensions images on the south side of the Hard Rock Hotel. You're gonna need a bigger imagination.
More Lego Dimensions images on the south side of the Hard Rock Hotel. You’re gonna need a bigger imagination.
The wrap on the west wall of Petco Park is finished. Vikings on the History Channel. May the Norse be with you!
The wrap on the west wall of Petco Park is finished. It promotes Vikings on the History Channel. May the Norse be with you!
The Ubisoft Assassin's Creed obstacle course is half-completed. It appears slightly different from last year.
The Ubisoft Assassin’s Creed obstacle course is half-completed. The configuration appears slightly different from last year.
Looks real. Or it is real, and those workers have super strength.
Looks realistic. Or is it real, and those workers have super strength?
Hannibal. Savor the Hunt. Creepy banners hung at the Gaslamp trolley station.
Hannibal. Savor the Hunt. Creepy banners hung at the Gaslamp trolley station.
The complex and interesting Heroes Reborn venue was being erected throughout the day Monday.
The complex and interesting Heroes Reborn venue was being erected throughout the day Monday.
As evening approached, guys were attaching some kind of black canopy to the steel structure.
As evening approached, guys were attaching some kind of black canopy to the steel structure.
Banners at Gaslamp trolley station promote Heroes Reborn, on NBC.
Banners at Gaslamp trolley station promote Heroes Reborn, on NBC.
The Tin Fish restaurant is decked out with NBC Blindspot graphics.
For 2015 the Tin Fish restaurant is decked out with NBC Blindspot graphics.
Behind the San Diego Convention Center, workers prepare a scary looking building, part of the FX Fearless Arena Experience.
Behind the San Diego Convention Center, workers prepare a scary looking building, part of the FX Fearless Arena Experience.
A second, larger building is also rising, across the grass of Hilton Bayfront Park.
A second, larger building is also rising, across the grass at Hilton Bayfront Park.
The Strain building wrap on the Hilton is nearing completion, two days before Comic-Con begins.
The Strain building wrap on the Hilton is nearing completion, a couple days before Comic-Con begins.
Another long structure is being set up nearby, and it appears there are many prop trees that go with it.
Another long structure is being set up nearby, and it appears there are many prop trees that go with it.
These smiling folks were heading along the bay walkway with a sign containing Comic-Con shuttle information.
These smiling folks were heading along the bay walkway with a sign containing Comic-Con shuttle information.
Lastly, Adult Swim is hosting a huge play area behind the convention center.
Lastly, Adult Swim is hosting a huge play area behind the convention center.
Here's a bunch of colorful stuff that must be unpacked and set up before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con begins on Thursday.
Here’s a bunch of colorful stuff that must be unpacked and set up before 2015 San Diego Comic-Con begins on Thursday.
Looks like a life-size version of Rick and Morty's flying saucer!
Looks like a life-size version of Rick and Morty’s flying saucer!

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Cool Star Wars cosplay in Fourth of July parade!

Kids wave at Star Wars stormtrooper and tie fighter pilot at the Coronado Independence Day parade!
Kids wave at Star Wars stormtrooper and TIE fighter pilot at the Coronado Independence Day parade!

I spent the morning in Coronado. I’ve always wanted to see their huge Independence Day parade, reputed to be one of the very best in America. (And I believe it! I’ll be posting a bunch of pics later–I’ve got a lot of photos to go through!)

One of the biggest sensations of the parade was created when a bunch of San Diego Star Wars Society members passed down the length of Orange Avenue, engaging in elaborate cosplay. Talk about cool! It’s like Comic-Con started early!

San Diego Stars Wars Society members engage in elaborate cosplay for Coronado's Fourth of July parade!
San Diego Stars Wars Society members engaged in elaborate cosplay for Coronado’s Fourth of July parade!
Imperial stormtrooper rides a Segway, an advanced land vehicle from the early 21st century.
Imperial stormtrooper rides a Segway, an advanced land vehicle from the early 21st century.
A biker scout trooper clears a path for the San Diego Star Wars Society with a flag-festooned, red, white and blue patriotic motorcycle!
A biker scout trooper clears a path for the San Diego Star Wars Society with a flag-festooned, red, white and blue patriotic motorcycle!
The Dark Force seems to have a big following. But don't be alarmed. Some fearless Jedi Knights have arrived!
The Dark Force seems to have a big following. But don’t be alarmed. Some fearless Jedi Knights have arrived!
An army of white-armored clones marches down a very crowded Orange Avenue in Coronado. The parade featured a fantastic variety of cool sights.
An army of white-armored clones marches down a very crowded Orange Avenue in Coronado. The parade featured a fantastic variety of cool sights.
Kids have a load of fun as costumed Star Wars enthusiasts participate in the Coronado Independence Day parade.
Kids have a whole lot of fun as costumed Star Wars enthusiasts participate in the Coronado Independence Day parade.

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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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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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Photos of crazy fun at 2014 San Diego Comic-Con.

Wonder Woman in a glass case and passing fans.
Wonder Woman in a glass case and passing fans.

2015 San Diego Comic-Con is less than a month away! As everyone gets ready, it’s time to remember some of the crazy fun stuff we experienced in 2014. Here’s a collection of blogs which contain numerous photos from SDCC last year.

Because I live in downtown San Diego, I’ll attempt to photograph a whole bunch of cool sights and Comic-Con craziness again this year, including trolley wraps, building wraps, special events, exhibits, cosplay and miscellaneous stuff around the Gaslamp! Stay tuned!

Click to enjoy:

Cosplay and Comic-Con craziness in the Gaslamp!

Comic-Con morning near the convention center.

Pics of 2014 San Diego Comic-Con Preview Night!

EXCLUSIVE: Cool stuff rises at 2014 Comic-Con!

S.H.I.E.L.D. rises on a black San Diego trolley!

Gotham wrap on San Diego Comic-Con trolley!

Cool detailed model of Boba Fett.
Cool detailed model of Boba Fett.

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Creative trashcan art adds fun to Hillcrest streets.

Dozens of trashcans on the streets of Hillcrest have been painted by local artists.
Dozens of trashcans on the streets of Hillcrest have been painted by local artists.

In the past couple years, most of the trashcans lining the streets of Hillcrest have been colorfully painted by local artists. During a recent walk, I passed quite a few of these street art trashcans and took some photos. Many of these fun creations were seen along University Avenue, between Fourth Avenue and Park Boulevard.

Every sort of colorful design can be found on these decorated trash cans.
Every sort of colorful design can be found on these decorated trash cans.
Lighted buildings rise next to a guitar player strumming under the stars.
Lighted buildings rise next to a guitar player strumming under the stars.
Many of the trashcans have a carnival theme, with masks, happy faces and crazy fun.
Many of the trashcans have a carnival theme, with masks, happy faces and crazy fun.
People walk past a cool spot to toss garbage, on University Avenue near Fourth Avenue in Hillcrest.
People walk past a cool spot to toss garbage, on University Avenue near Fourth Avenue in Hillcrest.
This looks like some sort of strange bug jester.
This looks like some sort of strange bug jester.
Wildly creative street art can be found throughout San Diego's Hillcrest community.
Wildly creative street art can be found throughout San Diego’s Hillcrest community.
A purple mask-like face that's difficult to miss!
A purple mask-like face that’s very difficult to miss!
An exotic blue face near a dirty orange construction cone.
An exotic blue face near a dirty orange construction cone.
Bicyclist in Hillcrest rides down the sidewalk past another great example of trashcan art.
Bicyclist in Hillcrest rides down the sidewalk past another great example of trashcan art.
I think I saw this green face on Star Trek.
I think I saw this green face on Star Trek.
An artistic trashcan waits by a bus stop near the Hillcrest landmark sign.
An artistic trashcan waits by a bus stop near the Hillcrest landmark sign.
Masks and confetti represent the party atmosphere in youthful Hillcrest.
Masks and confetti reflect the party atmosphere in youthful Hillcrest.
A big, joyful saxophone has been painted on this trashcan.
A big, joyful saxophone has been painted on this trashcan.
Here's an urban rooster.
Here’s an urban rooster.
Pineapple, fresh strawberries, watermelon, and some litter.
Pineapple, fresh strawberries, watermelon, and some litter.
These trashcans with images of food are located near Normal Street.
These trashcans with images of food are located near Normal Street.
A tree along busy University Avenue adds even more life to the city.
A tree along busy University Avenue adds life to the city.
Trashcan with Sphinx and pyramids is appropriate for the Egyptian Quarter, near the intersection of University and Park Boulevard.
Trashcan with Sphinx and pyramids is appropriate for the Egyptian Quarter, near the intersection of University and Park Boulevard.
Female face with Pharoah mask was painted by a local artist on Park Boulevard.
Female face with a Pharoah headdress was painted by a local artist on Park Boulevard.

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Young and old dream at Centennial Railway Garden.

Young and old together dream in a small outdoor nook in Balboa Park.
Young and old together dream in a small outdoor nook in Balboa Park.

The San Diego Model Railroad Museum in Balboa Park has erected a cool little exhibit on their outdoor rear patio called the Centennial Railway Garden. To commemorate the hundred year anniversary of Balboa Park, a detailed layout features streetcars traveling among 3D-printed reproductions of several buildings in the park. The scenes date from the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. Visitors young and old can dream they’ve traveled back in time as they take control of the fun model train action with their smart phone! (Technology has changed somewhat in the last hundred years!)

Go check out the Centennial Railway Garden and have a lot of fun!

Volunteer at San Diego Model Railroad Museum walks past 3D-printed model of the historic California Building with its bell tower.
Volunteer at San Diego Model Railroad Museum walks past 3D-printed model of the historic California Building with its bell tower.
Putting a model of a streetcar on the tracks. A hundred years ago, John D. Spreckels' Class 1 streetcars provided transportation around San Diego.
Putting a model of a streetcar on the tracks. A hundred years ago, John D. Spreckels’ Class 1 streetcars provided transportation around San Diego.
This small replica of the Spreckels Organ Pavilion is part of special exhibit that commemorates Balboa Park's centennial.
This small replica of the Spreckels Organ Pavilion is part of special exhibit that commemorates Balboa Park’s centennial.
The Centennial Railway Garden also includes a model of Balboa Park's Botanical Building and nearby reflecting pool!
The Centennial Railway Garden also includes a model of Balboa Park’s Botanical Building and nearby reflecting pool!
Getting the streetcars ready early one weekend morning before many visitors arrive at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum.
Getting the streetcars ready early one weekend morning before many visitors arrive at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum.
The very cool Centennial Railway Garden is a place in Balboa Park where dreams from the past come alive.
The very cool Centennial Railway Garden is a place in Balboa Park where dreams from the past come alive.

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Fishes of the Ocean huge art canvas in Balboa Park!

Painted underwater scenes on the grass at the Balboa Park Centennial 2015 Philippine American Celebration.
Painted underwater scenes on the grass at the Balboa Park Centennial 2015 Philippine American Celebration.

Astonished eyes were staring down at the ground at the Balboa Park Centennial 2015 Philippine American Celebration. That’s because a very colorful, very long painted canvas had been unrolled on a patch of grass for festival visitors to admire.

What you see in these photos is a segment of the seven kilometer long “Fishes of the Ocean” painting. The amazing artwork, depicting marine life, was created by thousands of mostly young people in the Philippines from 2006 to 2009. The project was an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for longest painting on a single canvas!

I did some research on the internet, but I’m still not sure whether a record was officially set. If you can provide more info, leave a comment below!

Small segment of the amazing seven kilometer long Fishes of the Ocean painting.
Small segment of the amazing seven kilometer long Fishes of the Ocean painting.
Talented young artists, mostly unknown, contributed to this colorful environmental art.
Talented young artists, mostly unknown, contributed to this colorful environmental art.
Abstract fish forms swim in a school on a very large canvas.
Abstract fish forms swim in a school on a very large canvas.
All sorts of exotic tropical fish are swimming at the ocean's bottom.
All sorts of exotic tropical fish are swimming at the ocean’s bottom.
Sea life painted in many vivid colors.
Sea life painted in many vivid colors.
Fishes of the Ocean was created in the Philippines in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record.
Fishes of the Ocean was created in the Philippines in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record.
Visitors to Balboa Park in San Diego walk past an unexpected cool sight!
Visitors to Balboa Park in San Diego walk past an unexpected cool sight!
A land shark waits motionless in the grass!
A land shark waits motionless in the grass!
The long strip of fun art zigzagged across the grass near the International Cottages.
The long strip of fun art zigzagged across the grass near the International Cottages.
Creativity is one of the attractions at the annual Filipino cultural festival.
Creativity is one of the attractions at the annual Filipino cultural festival.
Just a wonderful product of human imagination.
Just a wonderful product of human imagination.
This appears to be a scene from a coral reef.
This appears to be a scene from a coral reef.
A scuba diver among bubbles and rays of colored light.
A scuba diver among bubbles and rays of colored light.
I see a turtle, whale, starfish and octopus.
I see a turtle, whale, starfish and octopus.
Cartoon ocean creatures prompt smiles in Balboa Park!
Cartoon ocean creatures prompt smiles in Balboa Park!

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Early photos of San Diego’s big Greek Festival.

Classic images of Greeks and ancient Greece are sprinkled about the festival.
Classic images of Greeks and ancient Greece are sprinkled about the festival venue.

I enjoyed a wonderful long walk this morning. But it seems my poor old brain forgot some important information. Because when I arrived at St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church at 3655 Park Boulevard, I learned that San Diego’s big annual Greek Festival wouldn’t begin for over an hour!

I was allowed to walk about the area behind the church where the festival takes place and snap a few photos. Folks were setting up tents and preparing food. All the people I spoke to were very friendly. According to one, this annual festival is about 40 years old! The three day event features Greek food, music and dancing, and draws thousands from around San Diego. It will be open until 10pm tonight, and again tomorrow from 11am to 8pm.

My legs wanted to continue walking, so here are some photos of morning preparations…

Each year a Greek Festival is held at St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church.
Each year a big Greek Festival is held at St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church.
An hour before the event opens, preparations are being made for coming crowds.
An hour before the event opens, preparations are being made for coming crowds.
Flags, decorations and colorful wares are a feast for the senses outside St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church.
Flags, decorations and colorful wares are a feast for the senses outside St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church.
Orthodox religious icons displayed by one tent include familiar Christian symbols.
Orthodox religious icons displayed by one tent include familiar Christian symbols.
Icons of Mary and infant Jesus appear as if they're gilded in the San Diego morning sunshine.
Icons of Mary and infant Jesus appear as if they’re gilded in the San Diego morning sunshine.
Looking up at the church from the parking lot behind it, where the festival is held each year.
Looking up at the church from the parking lot behind it, where the festival is held each year.
Lots of people will be following the arrow to Greek coffee and pastries.
Lots of people will be following the arrow to Greek coffee and pastries.
One fun area contains tables, umbrellas and eventually yummy food. Unfortunately, I was much too early!
One fun area contains tables, umbrellas and eventually yummy food. Unfortunately, I was much too early!
Pita bread is stacked up waiting at one end of this Greek Deli tent.
Pita bread is stacked up waiting at one end of this Greek Deli tent.
An ancient scene seems to have sprung from the pages of the Iliad. Are those Greek warriors stirring up some Nescafé?
An ancient scene seems to have sprung from the pages of the Iliad. Are those Greek warriors stirring up some Nescafé?

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