Lens-Artists Photo Challenge #228 Diagonals

Patti invites me to join her this week as I explore diagonals as a way to add visual interest and depth to my photos, and a sense of action. What diagonals can you find? A line of trees or stones, a series of lights or signs, tree branches or a row of hedges, or cupcakes in a bakery window?

Looking at my library of photographs, I see that “Leading Lines” pretty much tops my composition style. So with over 400 images classified as diagonals and leading lines, I decided to first process photographs I took recently in Indianapolis where we visited family.

Trip to Indianapolis

With no direct flight from Sacramento, I had time to photographically explore the Phoenix Airport

Waiting to take off on the second leg of our trip
Looking Up

We stayed in Plainfield, Indiana at the Courtyard by Marriott. This large building crane next door helped us locate our hotel.

Building another hotel next door
Firepit outside our hotel

For me, Newfields is the best of both worlds. “A Place for Nature & the Arts.” Walking through the museum the display of colors caught my attention.

This is a wonderful little museum that engages both the young and old to really see and understand concepts of art. With the use of fun activities (puzzles to recreate paintings, beading activities) it engages the viewer.

View from a window of Eiteljorg Museum

We stopped at this diner for breakfast.

Oasis in Plainfield, Indiana

This is an authentic diner, but there was no room for a jukebox on the table. But the atmosphere was right. And there were cakes on the counter.

Almost a perfect reminder.
Indiana is the Hoosier State

Short trip and we wait at the Indianapolis Airport.

Lines and Curves

Finally got a window seat, and here we are leaving Phoenix, Arizona at a diagonal!

Phoenix at night

The rest of these images were taken in Northern California

Landscapes

Lake Berryessa, Ca

Street Photography – Tell a story

Winter Wonderland at Cal Expo many years ago

Architecture

Old Sugar Mill in Clarksburg, Ca.

My first image is from a day trip to Lake Berryessa, Ca. This is the largest man-made lake in California. The “Glory Hole” attracts many photographers. I wonder if it will make its appearance this year. We have been experiencing some rain lately. California certainly needs it!

I hope this post gives you a new slant on viewing the world around you.

Lens-Artists Challenge #170 Street Art

For this week’s challenge, we’re exploring art–outdoors, in the park, on the street–for all to enjoy. Thank you Patti for acknowledging all the art around us.

The last couple of years Sacramento has been encouraging creativity. Alley walls, sidewalks and dumpsters have provided the canvas. Artists of all ages come out to celebrate.

In 2016 alleyways and building throughout Sacramento became the canvas for Wide Open Walls (WOW). This annual event has brought art to all. This year my fellow photographers ventured out without me because Moxie’s puppy class is priority one.

WOW from 2020. One event that our group could enjoy safely.

Another annual event I usually enjoy is Chalk it Up. This artwork is not permanent, but fun to watch, and photograph. The sidewalks around Freemont Park serve as the location. Each square represents an organization, individual idea, or business venture. Again, I did not photograph it this year. Last year, CoVid protocols spread this event out throughout the city.

I came across the Art of the Dumpster in a vacant lot. Each dumpster had the artist’s statement displayed.

Glad I had my camera handy when I came across this dumpster art show in a vacant lot.

I am always on the lookout for murals that informs visitors about the town.

Stopped in Truckee, Ca. (Calif.) one winter day.
I learned something about the City of Livermore.
Lincoln pride is showing.
CCA Murals for Esparto. Their heritage is on display.

Learn about Carmichael’s roots at the Great Wall of Carmichael
If you have been to Old Fair Oaks you would know why this mural was
painted by 2 Bella Vista High School students Class of 2019.

How many of us have been stuck in an airport? I’m glad to find that these public spaces are now being adorned with art.

Leap by Lawrence Argent
Samson by Brian Goggin
I’m not sure in which airport I found this sculpture. It may be from the Indianapolis Airport.

The original Tower Records started in Sacramento and was located in the drug store that shared space with the Tower Theatre.

Murals found around Tower Records establishment on Broadway.

Mural at the Art Supply Warehouse in Southern Ca. It grabbed my attention!
Found this on a street in San Francisco with my granddaughter
A sad statement.
Paying respect closer to home in Capay at the Road Trip Bar & Grill
Marriott Hotel in Woodland Hills, Ca.
“Portal to Big Sur” by Aaron Appel and Abe Toke.
Came across this natural display of public art at Half Moon Bay, Ca.

Making the most of the space that surrounds us with art. It is nice to find such “eye candy” where you least expected! Just be ready to experience beauty.