Upon landing in Tuscon, I noticed a distinct lack of color through the airplane window. I had brought my camera with two very light and fast prime lenses (35mm & 50mm), but wasn't sure if I was going to get any time taking any photographs; the days were pretty full. I knew I would barely have any time to explore Tuscon and I doubted if I would have time to see any fabulous desert sunrises or sunsets.
The area around the Convention Center (where I was desitned to stay the entire weekend), was surrounded by freeways, tall buildings, and a lot of concrete. Not exactly the picturesque desert that I know Arizone has within its borders.
However, whilst walking around the convention center area, I came across veritble oasis of color that were hidden in the area that was mostly filled with browns, beiges, and other earthtones. It was a perfect place for me to spend a bit of my lunchtime taking photos and just marvelling at the array of color these buildings had been painted.The little area consisted of mostly private businesses and several shops (delis, restaurants, coffee houses, etc). The buildings were all painted a different jewel toned color. Windows and doors were of different colors, as were roofs, floors, and fixtures. There were a lot of little bistro type chairs and tables to sit, and a lot of trees to offer daytime shade in the hot Arizona mid-day sun.
The colors weren't garish by any means, and the contrasting colors really made this little area seemed alive. The days were slightly overcast, but it helped bring the color of the buildings and window frames more.So, if you're ever around the Tuscon Convention Center with little time on your hands, take a bit of time to explore this little gem in the desert.
