Last year, I took a trip to San Diego, hoping to sneak into the sold-out San Diego Comic-Con.
The main reason for my trip was to attend a comic writers’ meetup, even though I’m not a comic writer—yet. (Stay tuned for that developing story.)
As I cruised through town to get to my AirBnB, something colorful caught my eye: murals, and lots of them.
A quick Google search revealed that I was passing through Chicano Park, home to the country’s largest collection of outdoor murals.
Suddenly, I had a new plan for the day—exploring this vibrant space before heading to the evening meetup.
When I arrived in Barrio Logan, I was immediately blown away by mural after mural.
This 7.4-acre community space, established in 1970, was designated a National Historic Landmark in December 2016.
The park was overflowing with stories, each mural more captivating than the last.
Mind officially blown.
With my camera, I wandered through the park, soaking in the art, culture, and atmosphere.
But the atmosphere quickly got hostile. Things took an unexpected turn when I was confronted by a couple of locals.
One woman threatened to call the homies to kick my ass, convinced I was up to no good. She couldn’t believe I was genuinely there to take photos.
A little later, a homeless man was furious because he was sure I had taken pictures of him.
I didn’t, or maybe, damn. Did I?
Later, when I reviewed my photos, I found none of him in the shots.
Despite the threats and being followed by the older woman, I captured some decent photos and now have a great story to tell.
Oh, and I was able to make it into the Comic-Con.
One of the writers at the meetup offered me a ticket. Apparently, he had an extra ticket because he had been nominated for an Eisner.
YES, PLEASE!
Now, I don’t have to sneak in. I can walk in the front door like the sophisticated nerd that I am.
Life is a roller coaster, and I’m enjoying the ride.
