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Story By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Banksy's murals vary from splashy to biting, to humorous, shocking and graceful. This whimsical and colorful piece is admired by Bruce Keller at the wide ranging and memorable Banksy exhibit in Del Mar. Banksy is one of the most intriguing figures in contemporary art. His work appears overnight in public spaces, sparking conversations and debate worldwide before vanishing. An internationally touring Banksy exhibition just debuts on the West Coast at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in San Diego County. San Diego is hoping Bansky will contribute one of his intriguing artworks to the city as he has done more than once in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, locals and visitors are experiencing Banksy’s art here, a collection that goes beyond streets and galleries, blending history, culture, and social commentary in an immersive experience. This post explores Banksy’s origins, the highlights of the Del Mar exhibition, and what this means for the future of street art and public engagement with provocative creativity. Banksy murals at Del Mar exhibition showcase his iconic stencil art and biting social commentary. The Origins of Banksy: From Bristol’s Streets to Global Recognition Banksy’s story begins in the underground graffiti scene of Bristol, England, during the 1990s. Bansky was born there in 1974 and is often identified as Robert Gunningham. He emerged from a city known for its vibrant street art culture, combining stencil techniques with sharp political messages. His work reflects influences from punk music, anti-establishment activism, animal rights, environmental concerns and a desire to challenge societal norms. s created several murals in Los Angeles Banksy's "Security Guard With Pink Balloon Dog" (also known as Policeman Pink Balloon Dog) is reminiscent of a Jeff Koons sculpture. It originally appeared in Ontario, Canada. Unlike many artists who seek galleries and formal recognition, Banksy chose the streets as his canvas. His art appears on brick walls, alleyways, and public infrastructure without permission. This bold guerrilla approach makes his work accessible to everyone and difficult for authorities to control. At an opening night media preview, Banksy fans noted his images are more than visuals; they are political statements, sometimes outlandish, always provocative. They critique war, capitalism, inequality, and authority with both dark humor and irony. His famous piece of a girl releasing a heart-shaped balloon captures innocence and loss. His depiction of policemen frisking a child questions surveillance and power. His image of two policemen kissing champions his belief that "love is love" and encourages inclusion. Cookie and Keller at the entrance of the Del Mar show. Look for the white castle, alit at night. The Power of Anonymity in Banksy’s Work One of the most fascinating aspects of Banksy is his anonymity. Despite global fame, his true identity remains unconfirmed. This secrecy shifts attention from the artist to the message, allowing the art to stand on its own. Anonymity also challenges the traditional art market’s focus on celebrity and ownership. Banksy’s work often critiques commercialization, yet his pieces have sold for millions at auctions. This paradox highlights the tension between street art’s rebellious roots and its acceptance by mainstream culture. The Del Mar exhibition embraces this mystery, inviting visitors to focus on the ideas behind the art rather than the artist’s persona. It creates a space where the conversation is about society, politics, and creativity. What We Experienced at the Del Mar Exhibition Banksy's version of the Pearly Gates takes a new look at the traditional image, suggesting defiance and curiosity. The Banksy exhibition at Del Mar Fairgrounds is more than a gallery show. It is an immersive journey through Banksy’s career and the cultural impact of his work. The exhibition features: Reproductions of iconic murals that have appeared on streets worldwide, recreated with attention to detail. Interactive installations that invite visitors to engage with themes like surveillance, consumerism, and protest. Historical context explaining the social and political background of each piece. Multimedia presentations including videos and interviews that deepen understanding of Banksy’s influence. Walking through the exhibition, it's clear why Banksy’s art resonates globally. His work speaks to universal concerns while remaining deeply rooted in specific moments and places. Banksy's Del Mar, California, show is the first major west coast show of the elusive artist. Preview audiences enjoyed a colorful opening night exhibition for several hundred artists, writers and photographers. Banksy’s Impact on Art and Society has reshaped how people think about art and its role in society. His work blurs the lines between public space and gallery, protest and performance, anonymity and fame. Themes of his work: Democratizing art by placing it in public spaces accessible to all. Challenging ownership by creating works that are often removed or destroyed, questioning who owns art. Sparking dialogue on political and social issues through powerful imagery. Influencing new generations of artists who see street art as a legitimate form of expression. At a media opening preview, Banksy fans sign a wall, encouraging comments and observations. The Del Mar exhibition captures these themes, showing how Banksy’s art continues to inspire debate and reflection. What’s Next for Banksy Exhibitions? Following Del Mar, the Banksy traveling exhibitions visits other major cities, bringing this unique experience to new audiences. These shows provide a rare chance to see Banksy’s work in a curated setting while preserving the spirit of his lively, controversial street art. For visitors, attending the exhibition offers more than viewing art; it’s an invitation to think critically about the world and the role of creativity in shaping it. MORE INFORMATION: https://artofbanksyus.com/san-diego/ Up next: Whale Watching in Dana Point offers some of southern California's and the world's best whale watching. In early March, Dana Point hosts a famous "Festival of Whales." The town has hosted original whale watching experiences since 1971. And in San Diego, San Diego Whale Watch offers excellent whale watching, too. ON TAP : We're off to whale watch on the alluring waters west coast waters, with a Whale Watching festival planned to attract international attention in Dana Point. Oceanside has fantastic whale watching, too. Then on to Las Vegas for tips on the hottest shows. We salute America's beloved Route 66 on its 100th birthday and visit a museum showcasing the famous roadway. Check back often for travel tips, and recommendations to enrich your world view and stretch your mind and cash. Remember to explore, learn and live and please share the links!!

An entertaining introduction begins each Segway tour, as skilled guide Phil puts participants quickly at ease. A Scottsdale Segway tour is the best way to see the town's historic Old Town, learn about local landmarks and soak up desert scenery. The city's charms are internationally known. So is the fun of hopping on a Segway. Put the two together and you've got a winning combination. It's leisurely, educational and good exercise. What's not to love? We rolled on our Segway into the heart of Scottsdale recently, enjoying familiar sights but with a new slant. Shops, eateries and galleries we've driven by came alive in new light. We glided along sunlit boulevards, palm-lined streets, artful shops, appealing restaurants, all under that beautiful blue Arizona sky. Turning and positioning are easy, with amiable guide Phil to help. Here, part of our small group prepares for a photo to send back home to Iowa. We enjoyed meeting new adventure minded friends on the tour. No crowds, no windshields in the way. And with only eight of us early in the day, we had the city to ourselves. A Segway tour enriches a visit whether it's a familiar city or one you're just meeting. We heard tidbits about Scottsdale's rich history and culture. Who knew, for instance, that 11 million people visit Scottsdale annually, or that the city has a quarter-million people and 15,000 millionaires? Old Town Scottsdale comes alive and you don't need to be an athlete I had four Segway trips under my belt, so felt moderately confident but a bit uneasy as we "saddled up" for a two-hour tour. Our guide was patient and funny. He put me behind him, boosting my confidence. The brief training session was important for us all. I'm no athlete, but I had a bit of experience. Some of the others were first-timers, who quickly learned the basics of balance, pressure on the front or backs of the feet, and turning. Our well trained guide was one of the company's pros. He was patient, knowledgeable, proud of his town and had a sense of humor. Scottsdale's booming Waterfront was a photo stop, one of several on the interesting tour. After a brief training session we were off on our Scottsdale Segway Tour. Everyone felt confident since we'd learned the few simple ways to maneuver, centering our feet, leaning back and forward, depending on the guide's instruction. Turns are announced well in advance and we moved through Scottsdale as if the city had invited us along for the ride. Old Town Scottsdale: History With a Sense of Humor Old Town Scottsdale is not a museum frozen in time. Yes, it has the reputation of a western or cowboy town, and it does have a "Wild West" feel. It's also a contemporary, modern city proud of its restaurants, galleries, hotels and history. Our Scottsdale Segway Tour spanned the city's history -- from early day cattle drives and pioneers to the newer galleries, sculpture and murals which draw the attention of modern day travelers as well as history buffs. The city's contrasts are striking, and the Segway allows you to absorb it all without rushing or dragging your feet. A Segway tour through Old Scottsdale includes a stop in front of the city's iconic "Love" statue, one of more than 50 around the world, created by sculptor Robert Indiana. It is Scottsdale's most photographed item. Our guide pointed out details we'd missed. We heard about city founders, the town's original schoolhouse and first church, the development of the citrus culture. It never felt like a lecture, and was delivered with charm and lightness. Desert Beauty, New Development Up Close One of the appeals of a Segway tour is the closeness to landscape -- new buildings are a stone's throw away. The birds sing above your heads. The cacti bloom before your eyes. We glided to the edge of Scottsdale's booming and fairly new Waterfront where we paused for photos and watched the water reflections of the buildings and palm trees. Palm trees sway. Joggers wave. Cyclists slowed down to watch us. We felt relaxed and in tune with the moment. Time to slow down on your Segway for a photo of a bloom on an an Arizona cactus. Why Scottsdale Segway Tours Work Well Some cities are meant to be walked. Others are best driven. Scottsdale's wide boulevards and attractive, well spaced buildings make it perfect for a Segway. We covered more ground than on a walk, but we're closer to the action than in a car. We felt a connection to the city plan and its outdoors, had several photo stops and met new interesting people. For travelers short on time, a Segway is perfect. It offers insights to enhance a brief stay but is also fun for locals. Who can enjoy a Scottsdale Segway Tour? Repeat travelers looking for something new. Families, even several generations. Couples looking for fun restaurants or outing options for another day. Single folks and solo travelers who want to feel connected to a new place and make new friends. Grandparents who want to give parents a break and teach the kids something while having fun time with them. The Unexpected Joy of Slowing Down While Moving Fast Here’s the paradox of a Scottsdale Segway Tour: Even though you’re moving faster than walking, you slow down mentally and "smell the flowers." The balancing requires enough focus without draining energy. It's great fun and you'll want to put your phone aside. Arizona's famous saguaro are the backdrop on a Segway tour stop. Nature is integrated into each Segway tour. A Must-Do Experience in the Sonoran Desert Travel is about stories. The ones you collect, the ones you tell, and the ones you didn’t expect to find. A Scottsdale Segway Tour delivers all three. It’s playful yet informative, relaxed yet dynamic, contemporary yet rooted in history. And most importantly, it captures the true spirit of Scottsdale which is sunny, welcoming, and proud of itself. We're Segue devotees and this was one of our best. Give it a try and let Scottsdale roll out beneath you. Check out other stories about Arizona and the world at www.whereiscookie.com More information or to book: https://www.scottsdalesegwaytours.com/

Editor's Note: This story originally published during the book tour for "Lilian's Last Dance," which included more than 75 readings. Interest in a French version prompts a current trip to Europe. We've also changed websites to eliminate unwanted ads. This is all exciting for "Lilian..." with several leads on our upcoming memoir. Happy reading. ************************************ BOOK TOUR TURNS 30 STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER WE'VE DONE 33  readings and signings since the paperback of "Lilian's Last Dance" came out in February. We've read in barns and bars, bistros and back yards, museums, art galleries, libraries and living rooms. At a Billings, Montana, reading in the city library downtown, we played a couple songs from the musical version we hope to get off the ground down the road. We've read for several hundred people and we've read for less than a dozen folks.  Most of the readings have 25 to 40 people -- a good average number. Our recent reading at the world renowned Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyo., attracted nearly 100.  "Barbecue and Books"? Why not, here Cookie and Keller toast on the streets of Absarokee, Montana, during a recent all-day Cook-off. We've never failed to have an interesting -- and interested -- group. We are happy to read for as many people as show up.  It's difficult to predict! AT A RECENT reading in Powell, Wyoming, we had only a dozen people (we were competing against a football game.)   But we read for an enthusiastic group and answered questions while people munched shortbread cookies.  Another reading -- in my home town of Columbus, Montana -- featured popcorn in a friend's back yard. We made new friends and were happy to see a few people from earlier times. The Cody museum reading was during a luncheon -- with nearly 100 old and new friends. We've read in barns in small, country venues, in restaurants and bars. We go where interest is.  Once this summer, we read a few snippets at a table in a rural restaurant near us in Nye, Montana, when someone asked.  Such an impromptu request is not to be ignored! (The woman said she'd just finished reading "Lilian's Last Dance" and wanted to hear my voice read a passage about the Montana cowboy who sweeps the French title character off her feet.) Red Lodge Books and Tea welcomed book lovers to a recent "Lilian...." reading. WE READ at a fancy cocktail party in Oakland, with a view of the Bay Bridge. We read at a country club in La Jolla, Calif., while well tanned and sleekly toned people munched canapes and planned plastic surgeries. We've read at several patio parties -- one in San Diego hosted by my Jazzercise teacher. We've read at libraries -- including Phoenix, Ariz., and Miles City, Montana -- and at several art galleries and museums, including the beautiful Big Horn County Historical Museum in Hardin. In Red Lodge, we met at Red Lodge Books and Tea, to a small but enthusiastic group who sipped herbal tea and enjoyed homemade muffins. AT THE recent Absarokee Cook-off, we were asked to set up a booth.  We did, and sold a couple dozen books, while people wandered about the food stalls set up on the street, sampling barbecue, sipping beer and  talking about haying and cattle. Sometimes our Yorkies, Nick and Nora, are invited to the readings.  Other times, we find sitters to watch them -- museum ticket takers and librarians have been accommodating. Let us know if we can read for your book club or civic group, by calling us at 406 661-2910, or writing: lilianslastdance@gmail.com

Join veteran travel writer Cookie and photographer Keller on Where is Cookie?—a travel blog celebrating cruising, the arts, food, and cultural stories from around the world. Trusted Travel Insights for Millions of Travelers Around the Globe Follow the Adventures of The Carpe Diem Kids Award-Winning Global Travel Blog by Cookie & Keller Inspiring Curated Adventures in Culture, Cruising, Theatre, and Nature Welcome to Where Is Cookie? , a globally followed travel and arts blog sharing inspiring journeys across 120+ countries. Follow award-winning writer Christene "Cookie" Meyers and photographer Bruce Keller as they cruise the world, explore hidden gems, attend cultural performances, and review top hotels and destinations. Whether you're a travel lover seeking expert advice or a tourism board looking for curated media exposure, you'll find travel tips, hotel reviews, theater guides, nature escapes, and more — all captured with authenticity, wit, and heart. VIEW FULL BLOG About Our Blog Where Is Cookie? is a travel and lifestyle publication with 2+ million views, blending decades of journalism, photography, and global exploration. We share timely, trend-focused content that enriches and educates, making travel more accessible, fun, and meaningful. We’ve been featured in SD Voyager, Big Sky Journal, and more. ADVENTURE TRAVEL STORIES CRUISE REVIEWS & TIPS TOP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FAVORITE HOTELS & STAYS MUST-SEE MUSEUMS THEATRE, MUSIC & ARTS SCENIC TRAIN JOURNEYS ABOUT US HIRE US TO HELP WITH TRAVEL As featured in Heads Up! We’re currently updating our website, so some older content might be temporarily unavailable. Thanks for your patience and support! - Cookie & Keller We're based in sunny San Diego and Montana but we spend months each year flitting about the world, chasing great food and migrating whales, with tips on cruises, theater, cultural events. WhereisCookie.com brings our travel curiosity to readers from our SoCal and Montana roots to everywhere else on the planet. Check often for travel tips and suggestions on how and where to get the best bang for your hard-earned buck.

Discover the train travel media kit: scenic rail journeys, historic trains and rail‑culture stories from around the world by Cookie & Keller. TRAINS MEDIA KIT Our story and media kits about global adventures For inquiries please contact us here We love train travel and log countless scenic miles across the globe—whether riding Japan’s sleek bullet trains, unwinding aboard a vintage steam train in rural Yorkshire, admiring New Zealand’s landscapes, journeying through Alaska’s rugged terrain, crossing Australia by rail or taking a desert ride in Arizona. From a formal dinner aboard the famed Orient Express to sleeper cars in Patagonia, Melbourne, Tokyo, Dunedin, Seward, and the Oregon Coast, we specialize in rail‑journey storytelling and the time‑honored, educational magic of moving through the world by train. DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT Alaska Railroad features close-up views of nature's vast and magnificent scenery A journey on Alaska Railroad offers ringside seats to striking landscape and a pleasant experience in comfortable seats, with dining... Christene Meyers Sep 11, 2025 3 min read British trains offer organized, relaxing way to see the UK your way Bruce Keller poses by one of the UK's many efficient and comfortable trains. By using a BritRail pass, we were able to visit several cities during a brief trip, making the most of our time. TRY A TRAIN ON BRITRAIL FOR YOUR NEXT UK VISIT STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER IF A VISIT to the United Kingdom is on your bucket list, you might be overwhelmed by the variety of historic places vying for attention. Bruce Keller and Christene Meyers in Edinburgh's Waverle Christene Meyers Apr 30, 2025 5 min read Bernina Express takes adventurers to the sun; trains take travelers to the top of the world In late spring and into summer, temperatures in the Alps can dip to 15 °C (59 F), and there can still be snow on the mountain tops, as Bruce Keller and Christene "Cookie" Meyers discovered recently during a ride on the famed Bernina Express. HISTORIC RAIL TRIP OFFERS SPLENDID VIEWS ON BERNINA EXPRESS The viaduct outside Tirano offers spectacular Alps viewing. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER IT'S BEEN OUR dream for 17 years to take a train trip through the Christene Meyers Aug 8, 2024 3 min read 1 2 3 4 5

Explore the theater & performing arts travel media kit: global performances, opera, ballet and arts‑focused venue features by Cookie & Keller. THEATER & MUSIC MEDIA KIT Our story and media kits about global adventures For inquiries please contact us here Explore our theater travel media kit and take a front‑row seat in the world of performance. From the Metropolitan Opera to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, from Sydney Wharf Theatre to jazz clubs and country bars, our tastes are broad and eclectic. Cookie — an accomplished musician — and Keller cover everything: a Vivaldi string quartet in Venice, Broadway hits at Radio City Music Hall, Lady Gaga on New Year’s Eve, and the Tippet Rise Art Center, a multi‑million‑dollar venue founded by the Grey Goose barons. From subway buskers to world‑famous performers, we offer musical insights and theatrical travel tips for fans of the lively arts and our treasured readers. DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT Exploring the Passion of Flamenco as it comes alive in Barcelona Story By Christene Meyers Photos By Bruce Keller Flamenco has us hooked. This showy, emotional art form is more than a dance or musical style. It is a cultural expression -- full of emotion. Nowhere is it more alive than in southern Spain, and in a favorite city, Barcelona. For here, flamenco has found a vibrant home. A flamenco dancer performs with passion and precision in a Barcelona venue. Singers, dancers and musicians blend in flamenco, rich in tradition and a cultura Keller Keller Jan 15 4 min read No place like London for mixing new and old: history, food, theater, architecture, excitement London's skyline is a striking commentary on architectural evolution. This street scene illustrates the blend of history and innovation. With dozens of medieval landmarks like the Tower of London, there are beautiful modern buildings such as The Shard, with 26 stories, dozens of restaurants, residential living and a five-star hotel. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" "THERE"S NO PLACE like London." That a line sung by a young sailor named Keller Keller Dec 4, 2025 3 min read 'Lilian's Last Dance' book tour passes 30 mark -- Europe to Asia to rural Montana...bars to backyards, bistros, barns & Buffalo Bill Center A troupe of actors makes its way across the U.S., as silent movies give way to the talkies. Side trips to Paris and London, with a stop in rural Montana, plus a love triangle, drug addiction, show biz flair, loyalty tested, gunslingers, jealousies and dreams. Critics praised the tone, detail, intricate relationships and colorful rendering of place, period and interesting people. Christene Meyers Nov 10, 2025 3 min read 1 2 3 4 5