Making Summer Funner..

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.

Let The Games Begin

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.

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.

Art Bikes

I’ve discussed how popular Art Cars are here in THIS previous post. So much so… that the phenomenon has evolved to include Art Bikes. These decorated bikes are on display in Discovery Green bringing attention towards the fight against Multiple Sclerosis. Why bikes?? Well… let me explain. The fight against this disabling disease will reach its peak in a few short days. On April 17 & 18 over 13,000 cyclists (including myself) will ride over 180 miles in two days as we ride from Houston to Austin raising funds and awareness as we participate in this year’s BP MS-150.

Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is all about love and hearts and stuff, but here’s a little different take. The American Heart Association has set up a display in Discovery Green to bring attention to something we should all be concerned with. Go Red for Women displays 48 red dress silhouettes that represent the 48 women who die each HOUR in the U.S. from heart disease and stroke.

So today… and everyday for that matter… cherish your mother, your sister, your wife or your daughter and make sure their heart takes care of themselves.

Tools of the Trade

Following up yesterday’s post about The Magnificent Seven Ice Sculpting Competition at Discovery Green, each of the artists used several different means to create their entry. Chainsaws, roto-tools and even the more traditional chisel were used to turn simple ice blocks into works of art.

Thank You… Thank You Very Much

Not only was today Elvis Presley’s birthday, it was also the Third Annual Magnificent Seven Ice Sculpting Competition at Discovery Green. Seven artists from around the country competed for the grand prize, with one chosing to capture The King in all his icy glory.

I’ll have more photos of the other competitors tomorrow.

Outdoor Skating

The Ice Rink at Discovery Green, shown here as the sun was going down and reflecting in the waters of Kinder Lake, gives people a place to experience "winter" even if it's STILL in the 70's here.

What the Future Holds...

Yesterday we had a blast from the past of sorts, and now today we have one from the future.

Andy Mann's "Video Tree" has been an annual display in downtown Houston for ten years. This year it is presented overlooking the outdoor ice rink at Discovery Green. Stacked TVs show rapid fire video content displayed through multiple graphic effects.

A little different spin on the classic Christmas tree, but one that won't drop its needles later in the season.

Holiday in the Park

The exhibit “Through the Eyes of a Child” is a series of 28 five-foot diameter internally illuminated spheres suspended in the live oak trees of Discovery Green. The “ornaments” showcase the work of student photographers working under the guidance of David Graeve and make for an interesting stroll through the park.

They Saved Paradise... and Unpaved a Parking Lot

With apologies to Joni Mitchell.

Discovery Green, located on the south side of downtown, is a 12-acre park created in 2008 out of what were originally concrete surface parking lots. Fountains (see yesterday’s post), a lake complete with remote control boat rentals, gardens, bandstands for free public performances, dog runs and other recreational areas give Houstonians a place to “get away” in the shadow of downtown.

This image is of Margo Sawyer’s “Synchronicity of Color” which, coincidently, is the cover for the exits to the UNDERGROUND parking lot.

Joni Mitchell would be proud.

Splish Splash

The Gateway Fountain in Discovery Green is a series of water sprays that create an interactive waterscape.

While almost peaceful in this image... during the summer it is an escape from the heat for any child (or adult) to prance through.

Birds In Flight

Ah… a sign of autumn??

Hardly, seeing that we still are having high temperatures over 90º here. However, these silhouettes on the playground equipment in Discovery Green give the illusion it’s on its way.

I sure hope so.