Tag: photography

Cool mural at Restaurant Depot in Barrio Logan.

Super cool artwork depicts local community, history and sea life themes.
Super cool artwork depicts local community, history and sea life themes.

I don’t know much about this mural, apart from the fact that it’s huge, colorful and super cool. For years, it seems, scaffolding has stood against the long portion along Harbor Drive. Just recently the scaffolding vanished, and the brilliant, dynamic street art is fully visible in all its glory!

You can find this urban art at the intersection of Cesar Chavez Parkway and Harbor Drive, just south of downtown in Barrio Logan. It decorates the high wall that encloses the parking lot at Restaurant Depot.

I took these photos as I walked south to north along Harbor Drive, then turned west at the intersection for a little more fun artwork.

Enjoy!

Long wall along Harbor Drive is the canvas for this very large street mural.
Long wall along Harbor Drive is the canvas for this very large street mural.
Proximity to San Diego Bay inspires painted marine animals.
Proximity to San Diego Bay inspires painted marine animals.
This big fish seems to be watching for pedestrians on the Barrio Logan sidewalk.
This big fish seems to be watching for pedestrians on the Barrio Logan sidewalk.
A scuba diver seems unaware a large hungry shark looms just behind!
A scuba diver seems unaware a large hungry shark looms just behind!
Mother with young child gazes out at the blue Pacific Ocean.
Mother with young child gazes out at the blue Pacific Ocean.
People from all walks of life populate this very human work of art.
People from all walks of life populate this very human work of art.
San Diego Trolley travels through a scene similar to those found in nearby Chicano Park.
San Diego Trolley travels through a scene similar to those found in nearby Chicano Park.
Painted passengers on a trolley seem visible through a window.
Painted passengers on a trolley seem visible through a window.
Aztec warrior in elaborate costume blows on a ceremonial conch.
Aztec warrior in elaborate costume blows on a ceremonial conch.
Nearby Chicano Park's pavilion is shown with lots of folks dancing.
Nearby Chicano Park’s pavilion is shown with lots of folks dancing.
Young man and lady dance on the festive outdoor mural.
Young man and lady dance on the festive outdoor mural.
Musicians play instruments adding flavor to the celebration.
Musicians play instruments adding flavor to the celebration.
History of Our Community includes the once vital tuna fishing industry.
History of Our Community includes the once vital tuna fishing industry.
The lives of past and present residents provide generations of stories.
The lives of past and present residents provide generations of stories.
Fish caught in local waters just off San Diego.
Fish caught in local waters just off San Diego.
The end of Harbor Drive section, and now we'll turn west for a bit more...
The end of Harbor Drive section, and now we’ll turn west for a bit more…
Walking around the mural on the high wall at Restaurant Depot.
Walking around the mural on the high wall at Restaurant Depot.
This north-facing wall contains lots of bright aquatic life!
This north-facing wall contains lots of bright aquatic life!
Beautifully painted fish, a seahorse, jellyfish and starfish.
Beautifully painted fish, a seahorse, jellyfish and starfish.
An orange Garibaldi just above the sparkling ocean bottom.
An orange Garibaldi just above the sparkling ocean bottom.
Kelp frames the end of this long, amazing mural in Barrio Logan.
Kelp frames the end of this long, amazing mural in Barrio Logan.
This super fun street art is a landmark that is very hard to miss!
This super fun street art is a landmark that is very hard to miss!

UPDATE!

I learned years later (shame on me) that this 1993 mural is titled The Kelco Historical Community Mural, by artist Salvador Roberto Torres and his wife Gloria Rebolledo Torres. It was restored by Salvador Torres in 2012, which explains the scaffolding I had previously seen.

Salvador Roberto Torres is one of the founders of nearby Chicano Park, the largest collection of outdoor murals in the United States. He saw the great freeway pillars supporting the ramps to the San Diego–Coronado Bridge as potential concrete canvases, and so created the Chicano Park Monumental Public Mural Program in 1969. He was also one of the founders of the Centro Cultural de la Raza in Balboa Park.

During that later walk I took additional photos of the mural!

IMG_0505z

IMG_0580z

IMG_0582z

IMG_0586z

IMG_0589z

IMG_0591z

IMG_0613z

IMG_0615z

IMG_0635z

IMG_0637z

IMG_0642z

IMG_0644z

IMG_0651z

IMG_0653z

IMG_0673z

IMG_0675z

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter.

Millions of city doors, beckoning restless people.

Decorative doors to La Granada Ballroom at the House of Hospitality in Balboa Park.
Decorative doors to La Granada Ballroom at the House of Hospitality in Balboa Park.

How many doors are waiting to be opened in one ordinary city? In San Diego, with a population that exceeds one million, there must be many millions of doors.

We take doors for granted, pushing through them like nothing, and yet there is something magical and transformational about each one. Doors represent movement through space and time, from this amazing present to a future, amazing present. As we’re propelled forward in life we pass through many doors, and like the choices we face they are found on every side. Where do we turn our feet? Which doors do we try? Every chosen door leads our restless feet into a beckoning and wonderful unknown.

So, anyway, I just love looking at endless doors. And each unique invitation they present to the eye, while concealing unseen places beyond.

Here’s a variety of doors that I’ve photographed during many walks…

Colorful front door to a small residence in San Diego's Little Italy.
Colorful front door to a small residence in San Diego’s Little Italy.
Colors of the Italian flag frame this unusual door on India Street.
Colors of the Italian flag frame this unusual door on India Street.
Imperial Beach surf shop has a door plastered with beach-themed decals and signs.
Imperial Beach surf shop has a door plastered with beach-themed decals and signs.
Caged lion in the Gaslamp guards the Hard Rock Cafe, and a door with electric guitar handle.
Caged lion in the Gaslamp guards the Hard Rock Cafe, and a door with electric guitar handle.
Funky west entrance to the House of Blues in downtown San Diego.
Funky west entrance to the House of Blues in downtown San Diego.
Walking past distinctive front of Our Lady of the Rosary church in Little Italy.
Walking past distinctive front of Our Lady of the Rosary church in Little Italy.
St. Paul's Cathedral in Bankers Hill and an elegant red door behind rows of columns.
St. Paul’s Cathedral in Bankers Hill and an elegant red door behind rows of columns.
A little shop in Sherman Heights has a plain door invitingly open beside fun pinatas.
A little shop in Sherman Heights has a plain door invitingly open beside fun pinatas.
Artist studio door is wide open and welcoming in Balboa Park's colorful Spanish Village.
Artist studio door is wide open and welcoming in Balboa Park’s colorful Spanish Village.
International Travelers House has a door that welcomes one and all.
International Travelers House has a door that welcomes one and all.
Is that a swinging saloon door in Old Town, or a painted version on an ordinary door?
Is that a swinging saloon door in Old Town, or a painted version on an ordinary door?
This rusted door makes a fashionable statement in downtown San Diego.
This rusted door makes a fashionable statement in downtown San Diego.
Just a cheerful orange and bright green door in East Village!
Just a cheerful orange and bright green door in East Village!

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.

Historical photos of Balboa Park a century ago.

Photograph of the Panama-California Exposition's La Puerta del Oeste (west entrance) taken from Cabrillo Bridge. Dome and bell tower of the California State Building rise into the San Diego sky.
Photograph of the Panama-California Exposition’s La Puerta del Oeste (west entrance) taken from Cabrillo Bridge. The dome and bell tower of the California State Building rise into the San Diego sky.

Balboa Park’s big Centennial celebration is approaching fast! The year-long event kicks off with the opening of December Nights on Friday, December 5th. Later this month, the celebration will continue with a grand New Year’s Eve procession and concert at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion!

The Balboa Park Centennial marks the hundred years that have passed since the opening of the Panama-California Exposition in 1915. While a large open space park near downtown San Diego (originally named City Park) was established in 1872, Balboa Park didn’t really take shape until many years later. Many of the buildings along El Prado which visitors enjoy today owe their existence to the development of the Panama-California Exposition, which covered 640 acres and promoted San Diego as the first United States port of call after a passage through the newly opened Panama Canal. Other parts of Balboa Park were created twenty years later for the California Pacific International Exposition–but that’s a different story.

In honor of the Centennial–now just two days away–I figured I’d post a bunch of historical photographs of Balboa Park as it appeared a century ago. The following black-and-white photos are from Wikimedia Commons, and provide different views of the amazing Panama-California Exposition. I had to do a little detective work with some of the images. Since I’m by no means an expert, please leave a comment if I’ve written captions that require correction.

Cover of the 1915 Official Guide Book to San Diego's Panama-California Exposition. The event celebrated the opening of the Panama Canal, and lasted through 1916.
Cover of the 1915 Official Guide Book to San Diego’s Panama-California Exposition. The event celebrated the opening of the Panama Canal, and lasted through 1916.
Aerial view from downtown San Diego of Balboa Park's 1915 Panama-California Exposition. In 1910 San Diego had a small population of only 39,578.
Aerial view from downtown San Diego of Balboa Park’s 1915 Panama-California Exposition. In 1910 San Diego had a small population of only 39,578.
La Laguna Cabrillo lake and Camino Cabrillo road beneath Cabrillo Bridge. California State Route 163, a designated scenic highway, runs beneath the historic bridge today.
La Laguna Cabrillo lake and Camino Cabrillo road beneath Cabrillo Bridge. California State Route 163, a designated scenic highway, runs beneath the historic bridge today.
Detailed 1915 map shows Panama-California Exposition ground plan in Balboa Park (originally named City Park).
Detailed 1915 map shows Panama-California Exposition ground plan in Balboa Park (originally named City Park).
Photo taken of Balboa Park in 1915 from the California Tower provides panoramic view of many exposition buildings designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style.
Photo taken of Balboa Park in 1915 from the California Tower provides panoramic view of many exposition buildings designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style.
Looking west along El Prado through the heart of Balboa Park in 1915. At the exposition's opening ceremony, President Woodrow Wilson activated the electric street lamps with a telegraphic signal.
Looking west along El Prado through the heart of Balboa Park in 1915. At the exposition’s opening ceremony, President Woodrow Wilson activated the electric street lamps with a telegraphic signal.
Commerce and Industries Building and Foreign Arts Building stand side-by-side on the south side of tree-lined El Prado. Today, the rebuilt structures are called the Casa de Balboa and House of Hospitality.
Commerce and Industries Building and Foreign Arts Building stand side-by-side on the south side of tree-lined El Prado. Today, the rebuilt structures are called the Casa de Balboa and House of Hospitality.
Commerce and Industries Building. Rebuilt as Casa de Balboa, it's now home of Museum of Photographic Arts, San Diego History Center, and San Diego Model Railroad Museum.
Commerce and Industries Building. Rebuilt as Casa de Balboa, it’s now home of Museum of Photographic Arts, San Diego History Center, and San Diego Model Railroad Museum.
View of shady pergola and the iconic 208 feet tall California Tower from Los Jardines de Montezuma (Montezuma Gardens) in 1915.
View of shady pergola and the iconic 208 feet tall California Tower from Los Jardines de Montezuma (Montezuma Gardens) in 1915.
Los Jardines de Montezuma (today named Alcazar Garden) at Balboa Park's Panama-California Exposition.
Los Jardines de Montezuma (today named Alcazar Garden) at Balboa Park’s Panama-California Exposition.
Spacious gardens near California State Building's landmark dome and bell tower during the Panama-California Exposition.
Spacious gardens near California State Building’s landmark dome and bell tower during the Panama-California Exposition.
U.S. Navy ambulance parked near entrance of the California State Building, today the Museum of Man.
U.S. Navy ambulance parked near entrance of the California State Building, today the Museum of Man.
Kids feed pigeons on the central Plaza de Panama. The Indian Arts Building with mission bells on left was renamed House of Charm and reconstructed in 1996. It now contains the Mingei Museum.
Kids feed pigeons on the central Plaza de Panama. The Indian Arts Building with mission bells on left was renamed House of Charm and reconstructed in 1996. It now contains the Mingei Museum.
Expansive gardens near the Food Products Building. Today's enormous Moreton Fig Tree was planted in 1914 near this location.
Expansive gardens near the Food Products Building. Today’s enormous Moreton Fig Tree was planted in 1914 near this location.
Elegant facade of Food Products Building, which was eventually reconstructed in 1971 as part of the Casa del Prado. It's now the entrance to the San Diego Junior Theatre.
Elegant facade of Food Products Building, which was eventually reconstructed in 1971 as part of the Casa del Prado. It’s now the entrance to the San Diego Junior Theatre.
View of La Laguna de las Flores, the reflecting pool (or lagoon) at the Panama-California Exposition. This area was called the Botanical Court.
View of La Laguna de las Flores, the reflecting pool (or lagoon) at the Panama-California Exposition. This area was called the Botanical Court.
The Botanical Building, then and now one of the largest lath structures in the world. In 1915 its popular name was Lath Palace.
The Botanical Building, then and now one of the largest lath structures in the world. In 1915 its popular name was Lath Palace.
Fountain by Botanical Building at the Panama-California Expositon in Balboa Park. The Botanical Court a hundred years later remains largely unchanged.
Fountain by Botanical Building at the Panama-California Expositon in Balboa Park. The Botanical Court a hundred years later remains largely unchanged.
Gazing over reflecting pool at Commerce and Industries Building and Foreign Arts Building. A favorite photographic spot for a century in San Diego.
Gazing over reflecting pool at Commerce and Industries Building and Foreign Arts Building. A favorite photographic spot for a century in San Diego.
Food Products Building is reflected in tranquil lily pond directly in front of the large lath Botanical Building.
Food Products Building is reflected in tranquil lily pond directly in front of the large lath Botanical Building.
View of tree-lined El Prado from second floor of Varied Industries Building, which is now part of the Casa del Prado.
View of tree-lined El Prado from second floor of Varied Industries Building, which is now part of the Casa del Prado.
Varied Industries Building seen from the west a short distance. Rebuilt as a part of Casa del Prado, today it houses various art and botanical organizations.
Varied Industries Building seen from the west a short distance. Rebuilt as a part of Casa del Prado, today it houses various art and botanical organizations.
Home Economy Building (left of Foreign Arts Building), site of today's Timken Museum of Art. A wicker Electriquette motor cart is visible among people in the Plaza de Panama.
Home Economy Building (left of Foreign Arts Building), site of today’s Timken Museum of Art. A wicker Electriquette motor cart is visible among people in the Plaza de Panama.
Fine photo across Esplanade of the Indian Arts Building, rebuilt in later years and renamed the House of Charm.
Fine photo across Esplanade of the Indian Arts Building, rebuilt in later years and renamed the House of Charm.
One of many popular recitals in the Organ Pavilion at the Panama-California Exposition. (This venue is now called the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.)
One of many popular recitals in the Organ Pavilion at the Panama-California Exposition. (This venue is now called the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.)
Organ Pavilion colonnade with California Bell Tower in distance. Trees and a large parking exist today on the left, behind the classic structure.
Organ Pavilion colonnade with California Bell Tower in distance. Trees and a large parking lot exist today on the left, behind the classic structure.
View of Spreckels Organ in 1915, from a shady spot in the colonnade. Those wooden benches were replaced many years ago with benches made of steel.
View of Spreckels Organ in 1915, from a shady spot in the colonnade. Those wooden benches were replaced many years ago with benches made of steel.
The distant Organ Pavilion appears in this photo between the San Joaquin Valley Building and the Kern and Tulare Counties Building.
The distant Organ Pavilion appears in this photo between the San Joaquin Valley Building and the Kern and Tulare Counties Building.
Kansas State Building at Panama-California Exposition. Most of these old state buildings no longer exist today, a hundred years later.
Kansas State Building at Panama-California Exposition. Most of these old state buildings no longer exist today, a hundred years later.
Montana State Building, near the site of today's International Cottages.
Montana State Building, near the site of today’s International Cottages.
People take a stroll past a handful of state buildings at the Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park.
People take a stroll past a handful of state buildings at the Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park.
Utah State Building at the Panama-California Exposition.
Utah State Building at the Panama-California Exposition.
Washington State Building at the Panama-California Exposition.
Washington State Building at the Panama-California Exposition.
Artillery practice at the exposition's U.S. Marine Camp, which was located near the site of today's Air and Space Museum.
Artillery practice at the exposition’s U.S. Marine Camp, which was located near the site of today’s Air and Space Museum.
Southern California Counties Building, which stood a century ago in Balboa Park at the site of today's Natural History Museum.
Southern California Counties Building, which stood a century ago in Balboa Park at the site of today’s Natural History Museum.
Visitors back in 1915 enjoy the Southern California Counties Building's elegant patio.
Visitors back in 1915 enjoy the Southern California Counties Building’s elegant patio.
Large area called the Painted Desert at the Panama-California Exposition. This unique attraction was near the site of today's Veteran's Memorial.
Large area called the Painted Desert at the Panama-California Exposition. This unique attraction was near the site of today’s Veteran’s Memorial.
The elaborate Taos pueblo in the Painted Desert was a fantastic sight at San Diego's Panama-California Exposition.
The elaborate Taos pueblo in the Painted Desert was a fantastic sight at San Diego’s Panama-California Exposition.
Realistic exhibit shows Zuni native life at the Panama-California Exposition in San Diego's Balboa Park.
Realistic exhibit shows Zuni native life at the Panama-California Exposition in San Diego’s Balboa Park.
The Pala gem mine was one of the amusements along the Isthmus north of El Prado, near today's San Diego Zoo parking lot. It featured a 300 foot long tunnel filled with simulated gems.
The Pala gem mine was one of the amusements along the Isthmus north of El Prado, near today’s San Diego Zoo parking lot. It featured a 300 foot long tunnel filled with simulated gems.
The Cawston Ostrich Farm was an Egyptian pyramid-shaped amusement on the Isthmus, a section of the expo popularly called the fun street.
The Cawston Ostrich Farm was an Egyptian pyramid-shaped amusement on the Isthmus, a section of the expo popularly called the fun street.
The Japanese Tea Pavilion, northeast of the Botanical Building in 1915. Today, the Japanese Tea Pavilion is located elsewhere and appears entirely different.
The Japanese Tea Pavilion, northeast of the Botanical Building in 1915. Today, the Tea Pavilion at the Japanese Friendship Garden is located elsewhere and appears entirely different.
Citrus and other gardens in a wide north section of the Panama-California Exposition. This is near the entrance of today's San Diego Zoo.
Citrus and other gardens in a wide north section of the Panama-California Exposition. This is near the entrance of today’s San Diego Zoo.
The long Tractor Buillding was located near a tractor demonstration field, just west of the Painted Desert.
The long Tractor Building was located near a tractor demonstration field, just west of the Painted Desert.
California bungalow, surrounded by model farm at the 1915 exposition. Agricultural exhibits and demonstrations were an important part of the event.
California bungalow, surrounded by model farm at the 1915 exposition. Agricultural exhibits and demonstrations were an important part of the event.
The Lipton Tea Gardens at the Panama-California Exposition, one more interesting image from San Diego's rich history.
The Lipton Tea Gardens at the Panama-California Exposition, one more interesting image from San Diego’s rich history.

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter.

Photos of Balboa Park’s unique magic at dusk.

Lights come on inside Casa del Prado in Balboa Park as the day ends.
Lights come on inside Casa del Prado in Balboa Park as another day ends.

Balboa Park in San Diego’s bright sunshine is wonderful. At night it becomes magical.

As darkness seeps in and night gentles the world, Balboa Park transforms into an entirely different place. Take a look…

Plaster statues of Spanish painters become shadowy in courtyard of Casa del Prado.
Plaster statues of Spanish painters become shadowy in courtyard of Casa del Prado.
Faces above blue-lit fountain by Botanical Building.
Faces above blue-lit fountain by Botanical Building.
Ornate building facades on El Prado take on new depth at dusk.
Ornate building facades on El Prado take on new, amazing depth at dusk.
Walking down an elegant, golden corridor as night descends.
Walking down an elegant, golden corridor as night descends.
Passage along El Prado becomes mellow and mysterious.
Passage along El Prado becomes mellow and mysterious.
The sky becomes dark blue after sunset and faint stars slowly emerge.
The sky becomes dark blue after sunset and faint stars slowly emerge.
Balboa Park after dark transforms into a fantastic, fairytale world.
Balboa Park after dark transforms into a fantastic, fairy tale world.
Foliate capitals on the columns of the Spreckels Organ Pavilion colonnade.
Foliate capitals on the columns of the Spreckels Organ Pavilion colonnade.
Illuminated fountain beside patio beneath The Prado restaurant in Balboa Park.
Illuminated fountain beside patio beneath The Prado restaurant in Balboa Park.
One last juggle by darkening fountain near Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.
One last juggle by the slowly darkening fountain near Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter.

Behind the scenes look at the Spreckels Organ.

The facade pipes of the Spreckels Organ have been removed to be refurbished.
The facade pipes of the Spreckels Organ have been removed to be refurbished.

Those who attended last Sunday’s free concert at Balboa Park’s Spreckels Organ Pavilion enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

According to Dale Sorenson, Co-Curator of the Spreckels Organ, this is the first time he’s seen San Diego’s historic outdoor organ without the facade pipes. These big pipes, which interfere with the sound from the organ’s many other interior pipes and instruments, have been removed temporarily. They are in the process of being gilded–not with gold leaf, which is very expensive and a long tedious process, but with mica. The renovation is in preparation for the Balboa Park Centennial celebration. A very special concert will be presented this New Year’s Eve, on the organ’s one hundredth birthday!

Without the facade pipes, last weekend’s concert was heard at full power! Among the majestic pieces played by San Diego Civic Organist Dr. Carol Williams were Toccata, Symphonie V by Charles-Marie Widor, Prelude in B minor, BWV 544 by J. S. Bach, and Te Deum by Charles Tournemire.

Here are some behind the scenes photos of the organ, from outside and from within!

The facade's temporary removal allows a very rare look at the interior pipes.
The facade’s temporary removal allows a very rare look at the interior pipes.
Mechanical instruments now visible include cymbals, gong and snare drum.
Mechanical instruments now visible include cymbals, gong and snare drum.
Civic Organist Dr. Carol Williams before once-in-a-lifetime concert with booming sound!
Civic Organist Dr. Carol Williams before once-in-a-lifetime concert with booming sound!
People line up near gift shop to see and hear organ up close during the concert!
People line up near gift shop to see and hear organ up close during the concert!
Entering the organ pavilion building where offices, displays and the instrument reside.
Entering the organ pavilion building where offices, displays and the instrument reside.
A hallway contains dozens of historical photos of concerts, organists and Balboa Park.
A hallway contains dozens of historical photos of concerts, organists and Balboa Park.
Visitors can often go inside after the free 2 o'clock Sunday concerts.
Visitors can often go inside after the free 2 o’clock Sunday concerts.
Heading up west stairs to see and hear the pipes and complex organ workings.
Heading up west stairs to see and hear the pipes and complex organ workings.
Looking behind where facade pipes are usually located.
Looking behind where the facade pipes are usually located.
Looking up we see swell shutters and a big bass drum!
Looking up we see swell shutters and a big bass drum!
Turning to the right we find even more ranks of pipes.
Turning to the right we find even more ranks of pipes.
Cluster of long pipes seen from east side of organ.
Cluster of long and short pipes seen from east side of organ.
Banners and displays in stairwell on east side of building.
Banners and informative exhibits in stairwell on east side of building.
Visitor checks out display inside organ pavilion building.
Visitor checks out display inside organ pavilion building.
Opera star sings at crowded pavilion memorial for President Harding in 1923.
Opera star sings at crowded pavilion during memorial service for President Harding in 1923.
Mice near pipes comment that all hell breaks loose on Sunday!
Mice near pipes comment that all hell breaks loose on Sunday!
Albert Einstein in front of Spreckels Organ in 1930.
Albert Einstein in front of Spreckels Organ in 1930.
1915 photo of Spreckels on Electriquette wicker cart among pigeons in Balboa Park.
1915 photo of John D. Spreckels on Electriquette wicker cart among pigeons in Balboa Park.
Demonstration of how air pressure mechanically affects the pipe organ's action.
Demonstration of how air pressure affects the pipe organ’s action.
2005 bust of John D. Spreckels by sculptor Claudio D’Agostino.
2005 bust of John D. Spreckels by sculptor Claudio D’Agostino.
1915 San Diego Union newspaper announces America's First Out-Of-Door Organ.
1915 San Diego Union newspaper announces America’s First Out-Of-Door Organ.
Looking out onto the stage from inside.
Looking out onto the stage from inside.

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.

Incredible chalk art at 2014 Festa in Little Italy.

Shaina Joel chalk art shows Italian actress Sophia Loren.
Shaina Joel chalk art shows Italian actress Sophia Loren.

This morning, about an hour before the 2014 Festa opened in Little Italy, I walked up and down Date Street taking photographs of the incredible chalk art being created for the annual Italian-themed event. Numerous artists were already busy, their works at various stages of completion. Italian chalk art is also called Gesso Italiano. It’s bold, bright and colorful–a pure delight for the eyes. Over a hundred thousand people will converge on downtown San Diego to admire the amazing art once the festival opens.

I have included the entrant names in the captions of each image. Enjoy!

Looking east along Date Street in San Diego's Little Italy neighborhood during 2014 Festa.
Looking east along Date Street in San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood during 2014 Festa.
Bijan Masoumpanah chalk art shows face of classic Roman statue.
Bijan Masoumpanah chalk art shows face of classic Roman statue.
Shawnet Sweets chalk art depicts a colorful, whiskered person.
Shawnet Sweets chalk art depicts a colorful, whiskered person.
Squid In My Tea chalk art being created during 2014 Festa event.
Squid In My Tea chalk art being created during 2014 Festa event.
Jennifer Ripassa chalk masterpiece is a fantastic female warrior.
Jennifer Ripassa chalk masterpiece is a fantastic female warrior.
Salgado chalk art shows Romulus and Remus, mythical founders of Rome.
Salgado chalk art shows Romulus and Remus, mythical founders of Rome.
Team Parada chalk art eyes appear on a downtown San Diego street.
Team Parada chalk art eyes appear on a downtown San Diego street.
Squadra Terun depicts a wonderful face with Gesso Italiano.
Squadra Terun depicts a wonderful face with Gesso Italiano.
Gary Simpson unfinished chalk artwork of Madonna and child.
Gary Simpson unfinished chalk artwork of Madonna and child.
Aaron Hernandez uses bright colors in this distinctive chalk art.
Aaron Hernandez uses bright colors in this distinctive chalk art.
Here comes a cool sight! Some interactive 3D street art!
Here comes a cool sight! Some interactive 3D street art!
Lilianai Mai created three dimensional chalk art for Festa visitors to enjoy!
Lilianai Mai created three dimensional chalk art for Festa visitors to enjoy!
Brianna Cunha chats with a young person about her fun dog chalk art.
Brianna Cunha chats with a young person about her fun dog chalk art.
Sumart chalk art is very colorful in the Sunday morning light.
Sumart chalk art is very colorful in the Sunday morning light.
Lauren Minadeo is working on a chalk art portrait.
Lauren Minadeo is working on a chalk art portrait.
Valerie Michelle awesome chalk art contains grapes and a dog chef!
Valerie Michelle awesome chalk art contains grapes and a dog chef!
Team Arcala creating some chalk art that includes the Fiat logo.
Team Arcala creating some chalk art that includes the Fiat logo.
Killer Queens chalk art of Mario Kart!
Killer Queens chalk art of Mario Kart!
Moe Notsu was having fun creating this beautiful chalk art masterpiece!
Moe Notsu was having fun creating this beautiful chalk art masterpiece!
Cecelia Ramos Linayao has created many large scale solo works.
Cecelia Ramos Linayao has created many large scale solo works.
Stained glass Madonna from Milan Cathedral will be reproduced.
Stained glass Madonna from Milan Cathedral will be reproduced.
Cecelia is well underway creating the amazing 20 by 30 foot chalk image.
Cecelia is well underway creating the amazing 20 by 30 foot chalk image.
John Vaughn chalk art seems a bit misty and mysterious.
John Vaughn chalk art seems a bit misty and mysterious.
Art Within Reach is creating a landscape of trees using chalk.
Art Within Reach is creating a landscape of trees using chalk.
Lisa Pierre-Davis uses a long stick with chalk tip to outline her work in progress.
Lisa Pierre-Davis uses a long stick with chalk tip to outline her work in progress.
Holly Lynn Schineller chalk art is an homage to the future.
Holly Lynn Schineller chalk art is an homage to the future.
Tonie Garza chalk art of several tender, beautiful faces.
Tonie Garza chalk art of several tender, beautiful faces.
Tiffany Garza is the daughter of Tonie! Her chalk art is really fun!
Tiffany Garza is the daughter of Tonie! Her chalk art is really fun!
Mercedes Molloy shows Disney's Lady and the Tramp with Gesso Italiano.
Mercedes Molloy shows Disney’s Lady and the Tramp with Gesso Italiano.
Chalkolate is creating another awesome Mario using colorful chalk.
Chalkolate is creating another awesome Mario using colorful chalk.
John Vilotti chalk art of a stylish face.
John Vilotti chalk art of a stylish face.
Team Arancio reproduces a classic Cinzano label using carefully applied chalk.
Team Arancio reproduces a classic Cinzano advertisement using carefully applied chalk.
East Meets West and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly in Italian!
East Meets West and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly in Italian!
Byron Houston weaves a windblown flag of Italy with a small stick of chalk.
Byron Houston weaves a windblown flag of Italy with a small stick of chalk.
Kira Lewis-Martinez chalk art of a classic Nativity scene.
Kira Lewis-Martinez chalk art of a classic Nativity scene.
Lisa Bernal Brethour chalk art reproduces sketches of a famous botanist.
Lisa Bernal Brethour chalk art reproduces sketches of a famous botanist.
Lisa Bryson chalk artwork is brimming with yummy pasta!
Lisa Bryson chalk artwork is brimming with yummy pasta!
Team Noni produces unusual abstract chalk art showing biplanes over a cityscape.
Team Noni produces unusual abstract chalk art showing biplanes over a cityscape.
Unknown artist has drawn Dracula using chalk a few weeks before Halloween!
Unknown artist has drawn Dracula using chalk a few weeks before Halloween!
After bending over a lot, I stretch and look down Date Street at the talented artists.
After bending over a lot, I stretch and look down Date Street at the talented artists.
Movingarte is floating a chalk gondola on the dry asphalt canvas.
Movingarte is floating a chalk gondola on the dry asphalt canvas.
Ciao! masquerade chalk art is suitable for the Festa festivities in Little Italy.
Ciao! masquerade chalk art is suitable for the Festa festivities in Little Italy.
Michael Zamora puts the finishing touches on a chalk urn.
Michael Zamora puts the finishing touches on a chalk urn.
United Souls is creating a colorful chalk mosaic that looks like stained glass.
United Souls is creating a colorful chalk mosaic that looks like stained glass.
Jason D Slagle chalk art Vespa is definitely very cool!
Jason D Slagle chalk art Vespa is definitely very cool!
Team Tini-Monster is creating The Muppets including Kermit the Frog!
Team Tini-Monster is creating The Muppets including Kermit the Frog!
Megnificent is bringing a bold face into existence using chalk.
Megnificent is bringing a bold face into existence using chalk.
Team Pinoy chalk art shows face of Jesus on a bible.
Team Pinoy chalk art shows face of Jesus on a bible.
Another look down the street at the absolutely amazing, inspiring art event.
Another look down the street at the absolutely amazing, inspiring art event.

Here comes chalk art created by school kids, which I blogged about yesterday.

Platt College San Diego has made progress since yesterday.
Platt College San Diego has made progress since yesterday.
Canyon Crest Academy creating a classical image with chalk.
Canyon Crest Academy creating a classical image with chalk.
Torrey Pines High School National Art Honor Society made a character out of Italian food!
Torrey Pines High School National Art Honor Society made a character out of Italian food!
Cathedral Catholic High School team still working hard on the chalk masterpiece.
Cathedral Catholic High School team still working hard on the chalk masterpiece.
Santa Fe Christian High School seems finished with scene on a Venice canal.
Santa Fe Christian High School seems finished with scene on a Venice canal.
Roosevelt I.B. Middle School created a fantastic Venetian scene with chalk.
Roosevelt I.B. Middle School created a fantastic Venetian scene with chalk.
Joan MacQueen Middle School is getting started on their Festa chalk art entry.
Joan MacQueen Middle School is getting started on their Festa chalk art entry.
Washington Elementary STEAM Magnet School is half finished an hour before Festa opens.
Washington Elementary STEAM Magnet School is half finished an hour before Festa opens.
Torrey Hills Elementary kids created some really amazing chalk artwork!
Torrey Hills Elementary kids created some really amazing chalk artwork!
Lincoln Acres Art Program chalk art is actually an optical illusion of Mona Lisa!
Lincoln Acres Art Program chalk art is actually an optical illusion of Mona Lisa!
San Pasqual High School chalk art promises to look fantastic.
San Pasqual High School chalk art promises to look fantastic.
Just a flower someone drew on the asphalt for no reason other than pure joy.
Just a flower someone drew on the asphalt for no reason other than pure joy.
Mount Miguel High School students work on a window that seems to open into heaven.
Mount Miguel High School students work on a window that seems to open into heaven.
Lidia F. Vasquez has made great progress on her latest eye-popping masterpiece!
Lidia F. Vasquez has made great progress on her latest eye-popping masterpiece!
Teresa Elliott abstract eyes and face rendered with Gesso Italiano.
Teresa Elliott abstract eyes and face rendered with Gesso Italiano.
This happy sun and moon are just there on the street for no apparent reason!
This happy sun and moon are just there on the street for no apparent reason!

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook or follow me on Twitter.

Gaze at infinite stars and beauty in Balboa Park.

San Diego Astronomy Association members set up telescopes in Balboa Park.
San Diego Astronomy Association members set up telescopes in Balboa Park.

Late this evening I took a stroll through Balboa Park. As the nodding, golden sun bid the blue sky farewell, a smattering of telescopes began to sprout under the brightening moon near the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.

Today is the first Wednesday of the month. That’s the day members of the San Diego Astronomy Association gaze at stars and the universe’s infinite beauty, and invite casual passersby to gaze up at the wonders. Young and old bend over to peer through eyepieces, and are awed by the craters of the moon, planets that happen to be swinging overhead, colorful nebulae and distant galaxies…

The viewing begins in earnest around eight o’clock, when the sky is good and dark, right after the Reuben H. Fleet’s planetarium shows the monthly “Sky Tonight” program on their big IMAX screen.

Table with astronomy book, eyepieces and other equipment.
Table with astronomy book, eyepieces and other equipment.
One of many amateur telescopes set up the first Wednesday of every month.
One of many amateur telescopes set up the first Wednesday of every month.
Someone checks out a half moon around sunset.
Someone checks out a half moon around sunset.
Lights come on along El Prado and more stargazing enthusiasts arrive.
Lights come on along El Prado and more stargazing enthusiasts arrive.
My little camera barely registers the moon above the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.
My little camera barely registers the moon above the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.
The nearby fountain takes on a beautiful glow as night descends.
The nearby fountain takes on a beautiful glow as night descends.

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter.

Slanting light and color on Tuna Harbor pier.

New ropes, floats and lobster traps on San Diego's Tuna Harbor pier.
Bright new ropes and floats among lobster traps on San Diego’s Tuna Harbor pier.

Early this year I published a blog post about delightful heaps of junk on a working pier. As I recall, those heaps of junk were indeed quite delightful.

But they don’t compare with the extraordinarily awesome piles of stuff I saw today!

Very late this afternoon I took a walk along the same G Street Pier, on San Diego’s picturesque Embarcadero.  Just minutes before sunset, the sunlight was beaming almost horizontally across the glittering blue water.

Here are a few things that I saw:

Late afternoon sunlight brings out super bright colors.
Late afternoon sunlight brings out some startling bright colors.

My friend Jeremy reports that lobster season is just a few weeks away, so that probably explains all the brand new, unfaded lobster-catching gear that I saw along much of the pier.

Just a delightful mess of stuff touched by slanting light beside the bay.
Just a delightful mess of stuff touched by slanting light beside the bay.
Steel rebar and nets form interesting patterns of light and shadow.
Steel rebar, nets and tarp form interesting patterns of light and shadow.
A pleasing pile of rusted metal frames of some sort.
A pleasing pile of rusted metal frames of some sort.
Huge cylinder used by live bait boats to haul in nets glows with reflected sunlight.
Resting on the pier, a huge cylinder-like drum used by commercial fishing boats to haul in a seine net seems to glow.
Seagull flies off tall mound of fishing nets while another gull watches.
Seagull flies off tall mound of fishing nets while another gull watches.
White rope curled softly atop parallel shining rods of metal.
White rope curled softly atop parallel shining rods of metal.
Crazy ship's structure on pier almost conceals docked fishing vessel.
Crazy ship structure lying on the pier almost conceals a fishing vessel docked in Tuna Harbor.
Part of San Diego's skyline rises beyond angular steel jumble.
Part of San Diego’s shining skyline rises beyond angular steel jumble.
Another delightful tangle on the wonderfully untidy pier.
Another delightful visual tangle on the wonderfully untidy pier.
Ghostly white dried material clings to stacked lobster traps.
Ghostly white dried material clings to stacked lobster traps.
Purple floats strung on colorful rope across traps on pier.
Sun-touched purple floats strung on cheerful green and yellow rope.
Faded image of a face on a protective tarp smiles upside down.
Faded face on a crumpled protective tarp smiles happily upside down.

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter.

Photos of world-class sand sculptors at work!

Ten world-class master sand sculptors compete by creating amazing masterpieces!
Ten world-class master sand sculptors compete by creating amazing masterpieces!

This morning I headed over to the 2014 US Sand Sculpting Challenge and 3D Art Exposition right as it opened, hoping to avoid the worst of the Labor Day weekend crowds. My timing was perfect, as the world-class competitors were all hard at work on their solo sand sculpture entries! I’m told they began on Friday; it appeared their truly breathtaking masterpieces were nearing completion.

For your enjoyment, I present many photographs of these super talented international Sand Masters at work!

Kirk Rademaker is a Sand Master who has won 10 major international awards.
Kirk Rademaker is a Sand Master who has won 10 major international awards.
Kirk Rademaker works on his shoe sand sculpture on San Diego's B Street Pier.
Kirk Rademaker works on his shoe sand sculpture on San Diego’s B Street Pier.
The master sand artists all work very carefully as big festival begins.
The master sand artists all work very carefully as big festival begins.
Early Saturday morning, and the big Labor Day weekend crowd isn't here yet.
Early Saturday morning, and the big Labor Day weekend crowd isn’t here yet.
Joris Kivits from The Netherlands has won many awards in different countries.
Joris Kivits from The Netherlands has won many awards in different countries.
Joris Kivits works on an elegant, simply incredible work of art.
Joris Kivits works on an elegant, simply incredible work of art.
2014 US Sand Sculpting Challenge is in San Diego by the cruise ship terminal.
2014 US Sand Sculpting Challenge is in San Diego by the cruise ship terminal.
A close photo of some very fine work by a sand sculpting master.
A close photo of some very fine work by a sand sculpting master.
Helena Bangert, from The Netherlands, also does snow and ice sculpting!
Helena Bangert, from The Netherlands, also does snow and ice sculpting!
Helena Bangert steps back to look at her fantastic artwork on the Embarcadero.
Helena Bangert steps back to look at her fantastic artwork on the Embarcadero.
A lot of patience and steady-handed work is required to create each masterpiece.
A lot of patience and steady-handed work is required to create each masterpiece.
The skyline of downtown San Diego can be seen in the background.
The skyline of downtown San Diego can be seen in the background.
Chris Guinto has starred in three TV shows on the Travel and Discovery Channels!
Chris Guinto has starred in three TV shows on the Travel and Discovery Channels!

Check out my last blog post, which features Chris from days earlier!

Chris Guinto concentrates as he carefully smooths an edge on his sculpture.
Chris Guinto concentrates as he carefully smooths an edge on his sculpture.
Chris is married to a master sand sculptor who's in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Chris is married to a master sand sculptor who’s in the Guinness Book of World Records.
An exotic, unusual creation seems to depict an ancient warrior.
An exotic, unusual creation seems to depict an ancient warrior.
JOOheng Tan from Singapore is often called Vincent Sand Gogh!
JOOheng Tan from Singapore is often called Vincent Sand Gogh!
JOOheng Tan has won many top prizes around the world!
JOOheng Tan has won many top prizes around the world!
What appears to be a simple piece is actually beyond astonishing...
What appears to be a simple piece is actually beyond astonishing…
Look at the inside of the sculpture. Wow!
Look at the inside of the sculpture. Wow!
Sue McGrew is a star on the rise and has won several important competitions.
Sue McGrew is a star on the rise and has won several important competitions.
Where is Sue McGrew... She's inside this strange sand box!
Where is Sue McGrew… She’s inside this strange sand box!
The art is inside this hollow, angular sand sculpture!
The art is inside this hollow, angular sand sculpture!
I guess you gotta peek through the slots to see the finished marvel!
I guess you gotta peek through the slots to see the finished marvel!
John Gowdy is a Jersey boy now living in Italy. He won Sand Wars on the Travel Channel.
John Gowdy is a Jersey boy now living in Italy. He won Sand Wars on the Travel Channel.
John Gowdy's piece is both amazing and dramatic.
John Gowdy’s piece is both amazing and dramatic.
Some people in a row boat are being upset by a hungry shark!
Some people in a row boat are being upset by a hungry shark!
The vibe of this sand sculpture is crazy good.
The vibe of this sand sculpture is crazy good.
Melineige Beauregard of Canada believes sand sculpting is a spiritual experience.
Melineige Beauregard of Canada believes sand sculpting is a spiritual experience.
This stylishly rendered human head radiates with warmth.
This stylishly rendered human head radiates with warmth.
Visible are the Broadway Pier and a few visitors to the US Sand Sculpting Challenge.
Visible are the Broadway Pier and a few visitors to the US Sand Sculpting Challenge.
Melineige's work of art has a second figure hidden within the hair!
Melineige’s work of art has a second figure hidden within the hair!
Sandis Kondrats hails from Latvia! He won the Grand Prize at last year's competition!
Sandis Kondrats hails from Latvia! He won the Grand Prize at last year’s competition!
Sandis Kondrats takes a break to check his smartphone.
Sandis Kondrats takes a break to check his smartphone.
Very organic human heads are fused together in this fantastic creation.
Very organic human heads are fused together in this fantastic creation.
The world masters' sand sculptures are lined up alongside San Diego Bay.
The world masters’ sand sculptures are lined up alongside San Diego Bay.
Michela Ciappini from Italy is a frequent trophy winner here in San Diego.
Michela Ciappini from Italy is a frequent trophy winner here in San Diego.
One side of Michela's sculpture is very sparse, modern and geometric.
One side of Michela’s sculpture is very sparse, modern and geometric.
But something is growing between those straight sand buildings.
But something is growing between those straight sand buildings.
A huge sand rose and human form emerge on the other side!
A huge sand rose and human form emerge on the other side!

My next blog post will feature additional cool pics of the entire event…

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter.

Random art on the streets of East Village.

Six colorful dog murals on F Street in downtown's East Village.
Six dogs on a colorful mural on F Street in downtown’s East Village.

Here are some photos of outdoor art that I’ve discovered just wandering about the streets of downtown San Diego’s East Village. Enjoy!

Exotic faces, car and flowers along sidewalk in San Diego.
Exotic faces, car and flowers along sidewalk in San Diego.
Utility box dedicated to Tweet Street park.
Utility box dedicated to Tweet Street park.

The park itself is located up on Cortez Hill, just steps from where I live!

Summer swallowed us whole, written randomly on a step.
Summer swallowed us whole, written randomly on a step.
More fun street art in East Village.
More fun street art in East Village.
Cool smile, horn, coffee and heart.
Cool smile, horn, coffee and heart.
Bold graphics on wall of Lucky's tattoo parlor.
Bold graphics on wall of Lucky’s tattoo parlor.
Jumbled, eye-catching mural on a fence on F Street.
Jumbled, eye-catching mural on a fence on F Street.

This fence borders SILO, which contains a ton of awesome street art, which I documented in this blog post.

More artwork along F Street on the fence that borders SILO.
More artwork along F Street on the fence that borders SILO.
More cool street art on F Street in downtown San Diego's East Village.
More cool street art on F Street in downtown San Diego’s East Village.

…

To enjoy future posts, you can “like” Cool San Diego Sights on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter.