Chihuly Glass Art at the Benaroya Concert Hall..

Walk around Downtown Seattle enough, and eventually you will notice the strange glass art of Dale Chihuly, famed artist of curvy glass sculptures. I have seen his work is at the public library, various local businesses, and his museum neighboring the Space Needle. But of his most profound work I have personally seen, is at the Benaroya Concert Hall in the Downtown area.

Here, there are two monster sculptures at opposite ends of the long hall entrance, titled the “Crystal Cascade.” Both way three tons, and each measure about 12 feet wide by 15 feet long. Both are made up of many individual glass pieces, somewhere brought together and hung as the strangest of chandeliers.

Below are pictures I shot over the weekend, of this Crystal Cascade (from the side, and from the bottom)..

For more on Dave Chihuly, visit Chihuly.com.

Picture of Today 2/1/15, Keep the Lights on

Today will be a day not forgotten by Seahawk fans, or sports fans in general.

In short, the home team would have won this Super Bowl football finale. Both teams played a great, very tough game. The difference in victory was less than a yard to go. But in the end, a terrible call happened for the Seahawks, and perhaps the worst play in football (definitely in Super Bowl history) was made. Even so, it’s all a reminder of how human we can all be. Mistakes can be made, as imperfections are born from our god-given ability to make them. The best thing to do is brush them off, learn from these, and move on.

Then with new wisdom, there will be new victories to strive toward..like next season for the Seattle team. I look forward.

(Go Hawks!)

Pictures of Today 1/31/15, 12 Man Fan Colours

This was early last night, after midnight. Here in the Seattle Center, the 12 man spirit of the SeaHawks is going Beast Mode through the thick fog (see previous Space Needle pics!). The Super Bowl will be the next day, and the Pacific Science Center knows what’s up.

Also, I love the fog.

And, below is a bonus of where I stopped by this night..the Benaroya Music Hall, also showing some Seahawk cheer!

(Go Hawks!!)

Pictures of Today 1/30/15, Nightly Comes the Fog..

The fog is impatient today, rushing in. Seattle’s Blue Friday night before the coming Super Bowl, will be hidden.

I saw it coming a little earlier..

And then, nothing could stop it..

The moon shines high above the fog, for now..

And there was the Needle..

10 minutes later..

Now is the time for new secrets..

Picture of Today 1/30/15, Super Excited!

I’m crazy for this super Super Bowl weekend. Be safe and have fun out there!

(Go Hawks!)

Pictures of Today 1/27/15, Time Between..

Late night, between bus transfer points on my way home.

The air is very calm, and unchilly. I forget how different the near south side of Seattle in Pioneer Square / International District / Century Link lot can be compared to the near north side in Belltown (where I live). The lighting dramatically differs, with more orangey glows and matching neon lights. The buildings are very old town yesterday, preserved with a feel that dates back decades..something I feel that shows best at night when the crowds are gone and the nightly moisture descends upon my brow.

I didn’t think to shoot more pics than the above clock. I now reflect on this, sitting at home and thinking back as I write this. When I have more time and less exhausted from daily labor, I will return to this area and shoot more nightly pics.

Here below is the Downtown, shortly before I leave for the bus..
Note the Seahawks colors, lit upon the Columbia Tower on high. Just four days left to the Super Bowl (go Hawks)!

Picture of Today 1/23/15, Lady in Red

Once can loose a sense of reality on the 4th floor of the Seattle Central Library in the Downtown area. Lots of red and curves here. It is best to enter this area from an upper floor via the elevator, for a trippy feel. The senses take some moments to adjust, and then let the surroundings sink in.

This pic was accidental, with the cam settings off and the mystery shadow lady suddenly appearing. I like this result.

Picture of Today 1/20/15, Light Ride

Just a bike,
painted white.

Or not.

Picture of Today 1/19/15, Gulls of Mystery..

I missed most of the daylight today, as I remained busy in my working world for many hours. I heard mutters about protests and helicopters in the distance, and that was enough connection to the outside. There was nothing left in the end for me, but cold and quiet with the sun far gone.

On the way home, I walked a long nightly detour by the waterfront. Then suddenly on the over and up, many sea gulls circled about. Not sure what, but something got them riled. The light from the pier below lit their little flapping bodies, and I tried for a shot. Not quite what I wanted, but this is my first nightly bird swarm shot. I think it’s still worth a share.

Also, it brings to mind the X-Files theme. I miss that show..

Pictures of Today 1/18/15, Seahawk Night

Today, will be a day long remembered by football fans who followed today’s epic game between Seattle Seahawks and Green Bay Packers.

After a brutal first half, the Seattle Seahawks came back with a vengeance (two touchdowns in 44 seconds!) in the late 4th quarter, and to score a final win in overtime. Though Green Bay played great all through, the real losers were some scattered Seahawk fans who reportedly left the stadium and local bars during halftime; probably missing out on that sweet comeback later on. Those who had faith or stuck to cheer on when things looked bleak, shared more in the grand victory.

After some rain, the night was cold for my walk home. I heard Sea…….Hawk chants everywhere which warmed the heart, and with some shouts for a Super Bowl repeat win in two weeks. Meanwhile, I took some pics of the more grand tributes to our home team spirit, above and below.

Picture of Today 1/17/15, Let it Rain..

Not the best picture I could take, but fits the mood perfect.

Also, it’s hard to hold an umbrella and a camera at the same time in this situation. Rain was pouring crazy, but strangely beautiful to look at.

Here is another difficult shot.

Pictures of Today 1/16/15, Hiding Art

Today would have been an otherwise regular day, if it weren’t for the little discoveries I find.

This mural, is the other side of a building I often pass on Broadway street in Capitol Hill (17th and John). I cut through Cal Anderson Park to the back of the building, and I notice this lengthy work of art along the back. There is posted credits to Baso Fibonacci, Zach Rockstad, and Japhy White.

Here is a shot further on. The back residential street is very narrow, with cars back to back along the way. Shots from afar were not good, and filled with much cars. But I like this angle, though it only captures a small part. The first shot above is the best I could do. I like it.

Tis cool to know what kind of sights are around the corner to my otherwise familiar paths. Perhaps, I’ll come back when there are no cars and try for a wider shot of the long art.

Much later and further away to the Downtown Seattle area, I cut through the Post Alley underpass at Pike Place Market for another errand. And here, the wall art (which I post up occasionally) is ever changing with something new and thought provoking..

Cool.

Pictures of Today 1/13/15, Winter Fruits of Pike Place Market.

The Pike Place Market is the most famed and cherished farmers market of Seattle. Also, the second most popular tourist destination.

The reason for such, is of many. The fantastic fish, the local businesses kept strong, the variety of entertainment, a place of unique and interesting gifts, the wall of gum, and the interesting history attached. But for today and of many random visits my favorite reason for Pike Market, is the assembly of special fruits and vegetables; much of which you could never find at those brand name grocers. Of some, I gladly pay the little extra money to get a lot more flavor and discover new boldness.

Here are some below from various vendors of the Pike, from my latest visit. There more to explain in every picture, but I must withhold for now (also, quite exhausted from errands and other work lately). I will save the info for a very special project I am working on, of which this is first hint of mention. For now, admire the colors and info within; and let your imaginary senses to those tastebuds run free!

Pictures of the Night (Part 3), The Night Stop..

Continued from previous Part 1 and Part 2, where I lost myself in the fog and I had a strange yet short adventure. And now, I return back to the Federal Way transit station.

And I have a little time left to look around..

And, there are others. But, not for long..

I explore the parking structure, because it’s there. And to get a better view from above.

Everyone is gone, almost.

I look at the time. I best go back (bus arrives at 9:45 pm).

and here I am again. Almost empty..

Another one appears, than disappears.

And the last one runs. But not too late. Here comes the bus.

And that was all. I slept very soundly on very comfortable seat. I remember nothing else..

Pictures of the Night (Part 2), Playtime Alone..

Continued from yesterday (part 1), to the night before..among shadowy characters..

Above and below, we have a playground further away from the transit station. The basketball court has a very colorful layout, and very smooth. I wish I had a ball. But, I will playfully walk around.

Here is a two-dimensional maze, daring lost souls in the fog to partake..

And here is a hoop guardian, ready for basketballs to pass through. It waits patiently for the dark and fog to pass.

Soon, I would I would need to board the bus. But there was a little time, but not much..to explore a little more. Next up, the Federal Way Transit Station itself..

(To be continued.. )

Pictures of the Night (Part 1), Strangers in the Fog..

Lost in spirit…..

In the middle of somewhere, by a transit station in Federal Way (further south of Seattle)..I missed the bus back home, after leaving another bus from work. I was early for the next, by 45 minutes. I could wait impatiently and wear down my phone battery with obsessive social media play. Or, I could let my curiosity take over and walk away with the phone buried in my knapsack.

So, I wandered in the fog further away from the station and around the corner, drawn towards different lights. Between them, odd silhouettes stranded about.. These were the strangest strangers, frozen in the fog.

And, I wondered in my wandering..Who or what were these strange stone apparitions? Did they also miss the bus? Would I join them?

There is no escape. I am among them now..

This one is important. A spell or counterspell in process, I can only guess..

Here, I think is some part of a grand epic with an aquatic setting. Details are difficult, as the night hides much.

This one is different, and most suspicious…

And this one, I think strays from all company. It stays alone, especially tonight.

I could find no more information while here, other than shadowy visuals. Perhaps in the future, I will google this place. But for this foggy night, I like mysteries to stay as they are.

But, I noticed something else in the distance, far beyond this tree. It was enough to draw me away from the binding spell of the this strange gathering.

(To be continued.. )

Picture of Today 1/6/15, Vivid Morning Undream..

The long bus ride to work was a sleepy extent of nothing. I left Seattle about 30 minutes ago, heading south to work near Tacoma. Traffic seemed slow at first leaving the busy metropolis that I lived deep within. And with each blinking morning light in the morning haze, my eyes sank closer to the headrest of my comfy seat, on the Sound Transit ride.

But not all the way…

I blinked awide, to find myself drifting high above the clouds. Or at least, that’s what was actually happening, as the bus on the highway reached its high stretch on some hills where one could either see nothing, or everything depending on the weather. Here..was unreal, perhaps could be easily fooled all was a dream, and I might have actually gained a good night’s rest..

And that moment of realization; I snapped this above picture of mediocre pixilation from my decent smartphone, through the dirty window inside a vessel traveling at least 60 miles per hour (traffic improved). I took the shot needed, to prove later that such the sight was not a dream. I watched the white fog layer speed by, drifting with the fully snow capped Mount Rainer in the back. All was breathtaking, for the minutes lasted. Then, the trees arrived on the hill censoring the smooth silky oasis. The all-view soon disappeared..forever, and the road would become part of the thick layered fog. And there was nothing again.

I drifting back to semi-sleep.

Pictures of Today 1/3/15, de Lights

Let me show you some lights..

Big and small, in many shapes, connected and apart, in many colors or just one..
But I will only show a few for now. Some are enough for one night…

Especially, in the freezing cold.

Picture of Today 1/1/15 II, First 2015 Sunset

Back at Sculpture Park, here in Seattle…

I had an evening stroll, with some cold winter weather expected time of year. The day was clear at least, giving us the bluest sky throughout the day. But the temperature I think was in the low 30s. I stayed the hermit until I was hungry for some cheese and grapes. I made a detour to the market, feeling drawn to the fading light of Elliot Bay. Then, walked down to the water. Looking at the leftover sunlight, makes the distance so warming to the soul. I savor this until the last little light left.

Look at those colors..

Picture of Today 1/1/15, Happy New Year!

Happy New Year’s!

2015 is off to a good start..

Thoughts of Today 12/31/14, Goodbye 2014

2014 was a crazy year, and anything but mundane and boring.

The past year was happy for me at least. However, with a lot of other emotions thrown in. Every year, one must take the good with the bad. I lost a lot, including an organ, and a wonderful friend to an underestimated mental illness. I also gained a lot, including some fantastic video/audio producing skills and new friends; including a person of great inspiration worked for, who fought off life-threatening cancer..twice. I didn’t travel as much, though I have seen some incredible sights around this great Emerald City. I read some great books (lots of comics, ask me for recommendations), and watched some great movies (Nightcrawler, Guardians of the Galaxy, Birdman, Under the Skin, Black Mirror Christmas). I was guest host on a podcast (Junk Food Dinner), and experimented with audio journalism (not the best results however). I learned that I can quit sodas and deep-fried foods (and avoided such for 99% of the year). I also learned how awesome ice cream and waffles taste on a late sleepless night, and the joy of crazy cloud formations and epic sunsets. I spent great time with old friends I haven’t seen in many years, of who I missed much. I also broke my favorite camera, which I have attempted and failed to fix (may have to give and buy a new body for it..sigh). But at least I put some great pictures before that.

Also, the world around me changed. 3-D printing has jumped very far ahead, where we can now print objects in space orbit. We also landed a machine on a comet traveling 55,000 kilometers per hour. Some US states legalized marijuana and gay marriage. The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge raised more than 88 million dollars, through fantastically viral Internet social networking. Robin Williams passed away, much too soon and very tragically. Multiple police brutality incidents and accusations of such lead to some riots and civil unrest. Far off, there are escalating conflicts with heavy casualties worldwide; most notably in Ukraine, Iraq, Syria, the Central African Republic. Also, the Ebola virus took some major headlines, as doctors and nurses personally handling the spread are this year’s greatest heroes to me. There was much good and bad, of which we will not forget.

Well 2014, all has been fun and everything else interesting.. My eyes are still open.

There is a little left, of which I will spend in a local café writing and organizing. Later I will be on the roof of my Seattle apartment, awaiting the fireworks close by at that Space Needle. To all: have a great and safe New Year’s Eve, and a 2015 run full of great experiences.

Picture of Today 12/28/14 II, Letters from There

And, here is another something one could pass in Sculpture Park. Of that, I have no idea what this means or amounts to. Art or nonsense,..could be both.

I, just like this picture.

Picture of Today 12/28/14, Cloudy Days

Funny thing about these cloudy days..

Others see gloom and depression, and little reason to go outside. Sometimes these comes with cold chills, or some forceful winds. The rain can often be expected as the clouds darken. So, many will hide from the greys. That’s understandable, as only a small glimpse from a small or the portion through a windshield may not offer the best of the day. Expect poor reviews from peers who prefer the bland days of blue.

Yet, there are the bold who appreciate some variety. Those who, even on a cold or windy day, will put on their shoes and seek a more truthful view of their day. Because, often there hidden and changing variety above. No two days are the same, and some are better when there is less of everything else. These clusters of moist crystallized formations can put on the best show, though the stage itself can greatly enhance the performance. There is no cost, better than any HD screen. The best way to enjoy, is to seek a proper view to enjoy the grand show.

I found a lone bench on the edge of a city. This was the best seat ever.

Picture of Yesterday, Between Shadow and Light.

Another moment in between other good moments..

It has you now.

Picture of Today 12/25/14, the Holiday Sky..

Today was a nice gift..

Especially to the feverish and sickly ill in need of fresh air, like myself. The beautiful unique sky became a sight for healing to my congested soul. The overhead brought crazy color mixtures and fresh still air. The space between felt cold but not freezing (a manageable 41 degrees), and clean for this big city of Seattle. The streets were almost quiet, with barely any cars and occasional people walking about. The sound was still, except for some birds and the distant running giant fountain (and some Christmas music on the distant loudspeakers, mostly ignored).

I eventually found a nice chair, and empty table at an upper platform of this local Seattle Center Park (pictured above). Then, I sank deep within my heavy coat wrapped with a thick red wool scarf; then kicked my feet up for lost time, in the celebration of nothingness and continuation of healing. I watched the sky change until..

I had a visitor, another local traveler drop by. Hello..

Merry Christmas!

For all, may your day be full of Joy.

Picture of Today 12/22/14, Late Night Cheer

Some little holiday cheer and colour to share
before I go home.

Picture of Today 12/21/14, Winter at 3:03 p.m

Early today at 3:03 pm, I snapped this moment.

Then, also the official minute when the Winter Solstice officially begins for the area, says this site. The shortest day of the year will soon become the longest night.

What else included the unique and special moment, was my sipping of some amazing hot buttered rum apple cider. It was the best, tastiest cider I can recall from memory. The comforting aroma and steamy hot mixture made with organic fresh apples, was minutes purchased from the nearby Pike Market. They also had other cider mixes, of which are all good (you can taste test). I highly recommend these to visitors, especially if feeling a little ill (like myself this weekend). For those here and wanting, the location is usually in a small tent outside, or check out their site for more info at tinysorganic.com.

That totem pole is awesome. There are others throughout the city, with an interesting history, but for another day to me to share. For now, here is a better shot of that very tall pole..

Picture of Today 12/20/14, Merry Holiday Season at the Market

‘Twas the peak of the Holiday weekend shopping rush all through the Market. Earlier, where the corridors were crowded with tourists and gift-givers being greeted by merchants and fish-throwers. The rain outside stayed all day, and a little in the night with some sprinkles here and there. I meanwhile, am happy with my box of smoked salmon, of which I will bring to a party later on.

Good night.

Picture of Today 12/18/14, Around in the Rain..

Serious rain happened this evening. From the sky, everything drenched below to these streets of the Emerald City. For us getting home from work, we hurried. For others getting the holiday shopping done, they hurried. For the rest, there were whimsical choices and not the need to escape the nightly showers..which is why this merry-go-round was ready to go this late evening.

Also, one can never be too wet for mini-donuts and hot chocolate..

TRAVELING ORION

My frequent blog of my adventures in writing, discovery, and learning.

Chihuly Glass Art at the Benaroya Concert Hall..

Picture of Today 2/1/15, Keep the Lights on

Pictures of Today 1/31/15, 12 Man Fan Colours

Pictures of Today 1/30/15, Nightly Comes the Fog..

Picture of Today 1/30/15, Super Excited!

Pictures of Today 1/27/15, Time Between..

Picture of Today 1/23/15, Lady in Red

Picture of Today 1/20/15, Light Ride

Picture of Today 1/19/15, Gulls of Mystery..

Pictures of Today 1/18/15, Seahawk Night

Picture of Today 1/17/15, Let it Rain..

Pictures of Today 1/16/15, Hiding Art

Pictures of Today 1/13/15, Winter Fruits of Pike Place Market.

Pictures of the Night (Part 3), The Night Stop..

Pictures of the Night (Part 2), Playtime Alone..

Pictures of the Night (Part 1), Strangers in the Fog..

Picture of Today 1/6/15, Vivid Morning Undream..

Pictures of Today 1/3/15, de Lights

Picture of Today 1/1/15 II, First 2015 Sunset

Picture of Today 1/1/15, Happy New Year!

Thoughts of Today 12/31/14, Goodbye 2014

Picture of Today 12/28/14 II, Letters from There

Picture of Today 12/28/14, Cloudy Days

Picture of Yesterday, Between Shadow and Light.

Picture of Today 12/25/14, the Holiday Sky..

Merry Christmas!

Picture of Today 12/22/14, Late Night Cheer

Picture of Today 12/21/14, Winter at 3:03 p.m

Picture of Today 12/20/14, Merry Holiday Season at the Market

Picture of Today 12/18/14, Around in the Rain..

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