I lived in Austin, lived there for many years, and I commuted to San Antonio under the assumption that the two towns were similar. Separated by less than 80 miles, I never quite grasped the concept that Austin was in Central Texas whereas San Antonio was the gateway to South Texas. Geographically similar, but practically? Different planes of existence.
That sign, heading south on the interstate (I-35), was a marker for me, during that time, frequently I could catch a ride to town, and that sign was an indication that I was finally in South Texas. The name itself, too, it resonated with some type of ethereal, surreal energy. The sign that I chose for the masthead, though, that’s different. It’s on the main coastal highway, heading back into San Antonio from Corpus Christi. While the northern version, coming in from Austin is in a populated area, the southern sign is less so. I’d see it on most return trips from the coast. Again, coming or going, there always was a palpable hint of happiness.
The image haunted me, and the more I got to know San Antonio, the more I realized what an under-appreciated location it is. Austin is the hip, slick and cool younger (sibling) to San Antonio’s older, more (apparently) conservative (sibling). Same parents, but Austin’s known as the cool one and San Antonio gets passed by.
Over the years, I collected a number of images that proved how visually stunning San Antonio and its culture can be. San Antonio is every bit as weird as Austin, only in SA? No one cares. It’s not that big of a deal.
Laeti edimus qui nos subigant!
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