BostonZest

"Point-Counter Point" in the Snow - Photo of the week

This evocative photograph of the sculpture "Point-Counter Point" was captured by photographer Mick Timony. The dusting of snow, lacework of branches, and angularity of the building across the river add to the "interplay of lyrical and energetic rhythms" described by the artist, Russell Jacques.*

"Point-Counter Point" is located on the Boston University Campus in back of Marsh Chapel. It's the work of sculptor and BU Alumnus Russell Jacques. This work is often referred to as "Counterpoint." However, BU's Exhibition Coordinator for Special Collections, Perry Barton told us the correct title is "Point-Counter Point." 

Learn more about the public art that surrounds us. Here is one of our favorite reference books

Details:

"Point-Counter Point" is located on the Boston University Campus, behind Marsh Chapel, between Bay State Road and Storrow Drive. (map)

Writer: Penny Cherubino

Photo:  ©2009, Mick Timony, under Creative Commons license - see his site for details

Below is a link to more of Mick's photos.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/timony/

Russell Jacques: More work by Russell Jacques may be views at his site.

www.russelljacques.com

A photograph of the artist with "Point-Counter Point" can be seen on this page.

http://www.russelljacques.com/monumental2.html

* Russell Jacques description of his sculpture is from "Guide to Public Art in Greater Boston: From Newburyport to Plymouth" by Marty Carlock page 67.

Shiny New Parcourse on the Esplanade

If you're like me and would rather exercise outdoors, a parcourse can add variety to your workout. When it comes to exercise, I'm a runner at heart. But, no matter how often I vary my route; it can get a little boring.

The next time you run, cycle, skate, or walk along the Charles, try pulling over at the newly rehabbed parcourse. It's located on the Boston side, between the B-U and Mass. Ave. Bridges.  

You'll see apparatus setup in a series on a brick red surface. It may look a bit "playground basic," but in reality it's well designed. Wait until you feel that recycled rubber matting. I couldn't resist giving a few test bounces.

There are signs with instructions for getting the most out of the equipment. Separate panels give guidance for use from a wheelchair. 


According to Wendy Fox, Press Secretary for the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the current parcourse, was paid for out of a state bond issue. This sleek metal version replaces a wooden "Parcourse Fitness Cluster" that was donated to the park in 1985 by Bay State Health Care, Inc.  

While many people prefer to stay fit at an indoor gym, you'd be surprised what this open-air equipment can do. It lets you work the upper and lower body– a lot like you might have done naturally as a kid using tree limbs and rocks. And, it's free- no membership fees. So, the next time you're exercising on the Esplanade, take time to play at your new parcourse.

Need a gift for a runner? Here are a couple of suggestions. Support BostonZest by doing your Amazon shopping from here.

 
 

Details:

Posted by Ed Cherubino

Photos ©2009 Penny Cherubino

Thanks to Wendy Fox and DCR archivist, Sean Fisher for their assistance with the history.

Parcourse is on the Esplanade
Boston side between the BU and Mass Ave Bridges, near the Sherborn Street pedestrian crossover. This map will put you near the spot. (map)

Click here for more information on parcourses. 

Sunset Sail on The Charles

Sailboats from MIT jousting on the Charles with the Esplanade, the tower and lantern of the Old Hancock Building, and the Back Bay as a backdrop.

If we were selecting cameras as gifts for photographers at different levels, these are the three we'd recommend. Remember to support BostonZest by beginning all your Amazon shopping from here.

Back Bay Woodpecker- Bird of the Week

We've spotted Downy Woodpeckers all around the Back Bay in recent days. Or, maybe it's one busy bird flitting about the neighborhood.

My Canon G10 has a video option so I couldn't resist switching over and catching the action. I normally use the video feature to record interviews, but I guess with a lot of practice you could see a few more videos on BostonZest.

Here's the write up on the Downy from my favorite online bird site. The site is a service of Cornell University and is THE place to go when you want bird information.

While I adore my Canon G10 and always have it in my pocket or around my neck, I can't wait to try the G11. It has a new sensor and has been greeted with raves since its release earlier this month. In fact, Amazon says it may sometimes be out of stock because of high demand.

If you're thinking about an everyday camera, I can't say enough good things about this line from Canon. There is an old saying in photography, "The best camera is the one you have with you." My Nikon D200 is heavy and obtrusive so it often stays at home.  While my G10 may have some limitations, it does an amazing job for a camera of this size. It's larger than a compact, but I consider it an entry level Pro camera rather than a consumer digital.