Thursday, June 30, 2011

Paving the Way...

IMG_8967 by lc_db

Or should I say paying?

A somewhat popular means of underwriting improvement projects is by soliciting the public to "purchase" a tree, a brick or in this case a paving stone. For their "donation", they recieve the shown recognition.

These are part of the Meditation Gardens on the grounds of the University of St. Thomas, and as you can tell by the inscriptions, many of the sponsors are gratful alumni.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Is It Autumn Already?

IMG_0482 by lc_db

Within the confines of the University of Houston resides Jim Love's "Lanscape with Blue Trees"

Quite honestly? I could use the shade.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Say... I Do?

IMG_0695 by lc_db

Named after the oil well that started it all, Spindletop was the city’s first revolving restaurant. Located 34 stories atop the Downtown Hyatt Regency, the glass-walled destination completes one revolution every 45 minutes, allowing patrons a full 360-degree viewing of Houston. Rumor has it that since its opening in 1972 that over 1800 couples have become engaged in Spindletop.

It actually has experienced a re-birth of sorts as it had been closed for two years after sustaining damage from Hurricane Ike in 2008, but is now opened and ready for those itching to pop the question.

Monday, June 27, 2011

Proud as a Peacock

IMG_1398 by lc_db

This colorful detailing is part of a 1929 building that houses lofts on Austin St., just outside of the central business district.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Making Summer Funner..

IMG_1391 by lc_db

That squeal you just heard was the thousands of kids after hearing that Target has brought the World’s Largest Sprinkler to Discovery Green. Over 20 ft. long it is available free of charge and will be here through the weekend.


IMG_1396 by lc_db

Thursday, June 23, 2011

This Is Houston

IMG_0818 by lc_db

This mosaic adorns the side of the office building of Hubbard Financial Services near the intersection of Montrose and Westheimer. The 30 ft. long custom mural was a collaboration between the Leadership Houston Class XXVII and the public art developer, Museum of Cultural Arts, Houston.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Relief From the Heat...

IMG_1368 by lc_db

Average high temperatures so far for the month of June have exceeded 98 degrees.

This fountain offers a bit of visual respite and is located just outside of the central business district in the redeveloped Midtown area.

Monday, June 20, 2011

Concrete Canyon

IMG_9024 by lc_db

Looking down Louisian Street.

Disclaimer: Please do not try this during the work week when beasties like automobiles and trucks inhabit the streets of downtown.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Clarence, Come Blow Your Horn...

IMG_1387 by lc_db

This 50 ft. tall saxaphone has been a longtime mainstay on Richmond Avenue and is constructed mainly of re-used body parts of old Volkswagon Beetles. Through the years its has been several colors, and the establishment has had many names, but it now fronts for the oddly named...

The Horn Bar & Grill.



Rest in peace, Big Man...

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Let The Games Begin

IMG_1374 by lc_db


Earlier this week this flame was ignited symbolizing the start of the 2011 US Summer National Senior Games. Over 10,000 athletes over the age of 50 are in town competing in various athletic endevours. Located in Discovery Green, the flame will stay lit until the games conclude on June 30.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Sneaking Up...

IMG_0786 by lc_db

With Tony Cragg’s “New Forms” in the background, this view gives the impression that I was sneaking up on someone.

Even IF that "someone" was just another sculpture within the Cullen Sculpture Garden.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Which Way Do I Go?

IMG_0670 by lc_db

“The Dancer” by Marcello Mascherini was donated in 1975 to the City of Houston Art Collection and welcomes guests as they enter the Jones Hall for the Performing Arts.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Ship Channel

IMG_0422 by lc_db

Far upstream from the hustle and bustle that makes the Houston Ship Channel one of the busiest port in the country, this portion of Buffalo Bayou lies between the docks and Allen's Landing.

Monday, June 13, 2011

Round and Round…

IMG_9017 by lc_db

These spheres are just two of the many that trim out the Ray. C. Fish Plaza at the main entrance of the Wortham Center.

Ray C. Fish was a pioneer in the natural gas transportation industry and his success allowed him to become quite the philanthropist. His Ray C. Fish Foundation granted the initial funds to start the Texas Heart Institute founded in 1962 by Dr. Denton Cooley, which is now considered to be one of the top cardiovascular centers in the nation.

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Train Keeps A Rolling...

DSC00722 by lc_db

The retractable roof of Minute Maid Stadium isn't its only iconic feature, the replica 1860 locamotive that transverses high above left and center field is a fan favorite.

Friday, June 10, 2011

At Least Someone Is Happy

IMG_9203 by lc_db

I seem to be on a bit of an Eastern spiritual kick these last couple of days.

Regardless... This statue of Buddha rests in the shade of the Chung Mei Buddhist Temple.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Confucius Say...

IMG_1191 by lc_db

Geeez... It's hot!!!

Maybe not his most well known saying, but it IS the truth.

Sculptor Willy Wang was commissioned to create this rendition of the reknown Chinese philosopher to commemorate the 2560th anniversary of Confucius’ birth. A gift to the City of Houston from Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Houston, in association with the Houston Chinese-American community, this bronze sculpture has resided in the tranquil setting within the borders of the Houston Garden Center in Hermann Park since its dedication in September of 2009.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Cooler Heads Will Prevail

IMG_0029 by lc_db

With triple digit temperatures already appearing (105º F on Sunday) it might be time to start looking for some cooler venues to enjoy outdoor time.

This is another photo from the Sisters of Charity Park located adjacent to St. Joseph's Hospital.

I think I may just stay indoors.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

A Bridge Not That Far...

IMG_1223 by lc_db

The recently constructed Rosemont Bridge over Buffalo Bayou allows hikers and cyclists a means to cross over between the two hike/bike paths on either side of Buffalo Bayou Park.

Not to mention offering a fairly nice view of the downtown skyline.

Monday, June 6, 2011

Once A Church...

IMG_0859 by lc_db

Not always a church. Well... not in this case anyway.

The Eleanor K. Freed Library in the Neartown area was donated to the City of Houston for use as a library in 1986. Built in 1946 and formally know as the Central Church of Christ, there are still parts of the church remaining, including the stained glass window seen here.

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Benched At the Menil

IMG_8935 by lc_db

A very "linear" image outside the Menil Collection main building.

Friday, June 3, 2011

Attention!!



These vertical reeds add to the atmosphere on the wrap-around patio of Brochstein Pavilion on the campus of Rice University. Offering students a calm setting for catching up on their reading or getting a bite to eat, this almost 11,000 sq. ft. plaza is located just behind the Fondren Library.

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Do You Hear What I Hear?


Then perhaps you need one of these Listening Vessels. Located in Discovery Green and sculpted from a solid piece of limestone by Doug Hollis, this parabolic dish, when paired with its twin 60 ft. away, allows people to experience the science of soundwaves. Speak in a normal tone, and your buddy across the Urban Garden can actually hear you.



No yelling necessary.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

June Theme Day – Under Construction



This month’s City Daily Photo Community theme is “Under Construction”.

Technically… not really construction, but just the opposite. I have originally discussed the fate of the Downtown YMCA HERE, and now that fate has come to fruition as the demolition of the existing building is underway. I actually get to watch this noisy affair unfold as it is directly below my office window.



Click here to view thumbnails for all Theme Day participants