Guardians of Traffic - New Additions

Vintage-style Art Deco poster design - A tribute to Cleveland's Guardians.

Over the past several weeks, I’ve expanded my Cleveland Guardians of Traffic collection with more then 50 new artworks inspired by one of Cleveland’s most iconic architectural landmarks — the massive Art Deco sculptures lining the Hope Memorial Bridge. This latest series includes dramatic photography, black white architectural studies, watercolor interpretations, poster-style designs, and detailed drawings inspired by imaginative transportation-themed variations celebrating Cleveland’s industrial and transportation history.

Artistic interpretations through photography and watercolor design.

The Guardians have fascinated me for years because they symbolize far more than traffic or transportation. They represent strength, progress, craftsmanship, and the spirit of a city built on steel, manufacturing, railroads, shipping, and innovation. Every angle, texture, and carved detail tells part of Cleveland’s story. Some of the newest pieces focus on dramatic close-up side profiles against swirling skies, while others creatively pair the Guardians with vintage automobiles, wagons, trucks, and transportation imagery inspired by the bridge’s original symbolism.

What makes these sculptures especially compelling is how well they adapt across different artistic styles. Some images lean into timeless black white architectural photography, while others embrace softer watercolor textures or bold graphic poster aesthetics. The collection now offers a much broader range of visual styles for Cleveland enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and collectors of urban Americana.

The Guardians of Traffic remain among the most recognizable symbols in Cleveland, Ohio, and these new works continue my ongoing effort to celebrate the city’s history, architecture, and civic identity through photography and design.

Explore the complete Guardians of Traffic collection and more Cleveland artwork at DaleKincaid.com.

 Cleveland Poster Artwork

A vintage-inspired Cleveland poster celebrating the city’s lakefront skyline.

There’s something timeless about a classic travel poster. Long before social media and digital advertising, bold illustrated posters invited travelers to experience the energy, architecture, and personality of great American cities. That same inspiration became the foundation for my newest collection of Cleveland poster artwork.

Over the past several weeks, I’ve been creating a growing series of Cleveland-inspired poster designs featuring many of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and themes. The collection blends vintage travel aesthetics, Art Deco influences, documentary-style layouts, and modern graphic illustration to celebrate Cleveland’s identity as America’s North Coast.

The series includes posters featuring the iconic Terminal Tower, the Guardians of Traffic on the Hope Memorial Bridge, West Side Market, Cleveland skyline views, stylized city maps, and even the historic arrival and commissioning of the USS Cleveland (LCS-31). Some pieces lean heavily into retro travel-poster styling, while others use minimalist layouts, monochrome treatments, richly detailed architectural illustrations, or poetry-style typographic compositions that combine decorative borders, vintage-inspired lettering, and literary design elements to celebrate the voice and spirit of Cleveland. Together, they create a visual tribute to the city’s industrial heritage, waterfront culture, architecture, and civic pride.

Vintage-inspired designs and a poetic tribute to Cleveland’s North Coast pride.

One of the things I enjoy most about this collection is how differently Cleveland can be interpreted from one design to the next. A single landmark can feel nostalgic, modern, patriotic, cinematic, or purely graphic depending on the style and composition. The posters are meant to feel collectible — the kind of artwork you might discover in an old railway station, visitor bureau, or historic exhibition hall.

As someone who has spent years photographing and documenting Cleveland, this project has become a creative way to combine photography, illustration, storytelling, and local history into a single body of work — and a growing collection inspired by Cleveland’s skyline, neighborhoods, landmarks, waterfront, and industrial character. Each piece approaches the city from a slightly different perspective — some leaning into vintage travel poster aesthetics, others inspired by Art Deco design, civic pride, nostalgia, or modern graphic illustration. Together, the collection reflects the energy, resilience, and personality that continue to define Cleveland and the North Coast. Whether you’re a lifelong Clevelander, an Ohio native, a collector of travel posters, or simply someone who appreciates vintage-inspired artwork, these posters were created to celebrate the city in a timeless and visually striking way.

Explore the Cleveland Poster Collection and more Cleveland artwork at DaleKincaid.com

 USS Cleveland LCS 31 Arrives in Cleveland Harbor

Cleveland welcomes the USS Cleveland (LCS 31) home to the North Coast.

On the morning of May 9, 2026, I joined dozens of photographers gathered at Wendy Park near the Coast Guard station to witness the arrival of the USS Cleveland (LCS 31) as it made its way into Cleveland Harbor ahead of its official commissioning ceremony. Just in the area where I was photographing from, there were easily more than 50 photographers, many of them friends, all waiting to capture a once-in-a-lifetime moment for Cleveland and for naval history. Residents lined the shoreline from Vermilion to Cleveland while private boats formed a welcoming flotilla on Lake Erie as the vessel made its way toward the city.

As the massive warship approached the Cleveland Harbor Lighthouse and passed along the Lake Erie shoreline, I could not help feeling both excited and blessed to witness and photograph such a historic event. I hoped to capture images that, to some, might make a difference — photographs that not only document history, but also become meaningful commemorative artwork Clevelanders, veterans and naval enthusiasts would treasure for years to come. I also knew I had to create a commemorative poster honoring the occasion.

The USS Cleveland is the fourth United States Navy vessel to carry the city’s name and will officially enter active service during its commissioning ceremony on May 16 at North Coast Yard in Cleveland. The event marks the first time in our nation’s 250-year history that a United States Navy warship will be commissioned in the State of Ohio. A commissioning ceremony is one of the Navy’s most respected traditions, formally placing a vessel into active duty and recognizing the readiness of both the ship and its crew.

The USS Cleveland also represents the final Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship to be commissioned for the United States Navy. Built by Fincantieri Marinette Marine in Wisconsin, the ship was designed for high-speed coastal warfare operations and is capable of speeds exceeding 40 knots while supporting missions involving surface warfare, anti-submarine defense and mine countermeasures. Bearing the official call sign "NCLE," the USS Cleveland also reflects Northeast Ohio’s industrial and maritime heritage through the use of regional manufacturing support, Cleveland-produced steel incorporated during construction, and protective marine coatings supplied by Cleveland-based Sherwin-Williams.

One of the most fascinating details surrounding the ship is its official seal and crest featuring the motto “FORGE A LEGACY.” The emblem incorporates a silhouette of the Cleveland skyline, four stars representing the four Navy vessels named for Cleveland, and symbolic references to Lake Erie, the Cuyahoga River, Cleveland Public Square, the city’s industrial strength, and Cleveland’s world-renowned hospitals, museums and universities. The crest’s sixteen sun rays honor the USS Cleveland as the sixteenth Freedom-class littoral combat ship. Even more meaningful is the long-term vision behind the motto itself — that after 20 to 25 years of active service, the ship could someday return to Cleveland as a memorial and museum honoring its service and legacy.

All of these photographs, along with the commemorative poster artwork, are now available on my website. Some will also become part of my America 250 Collection honoring important moments, places and symbols connected to our nation’s upcoming semiquincentennial celebration.

Explore the collection at DaleKincaid.com - USS Cleveland

 OSU Wexner Medical Center Features Photography from Ohio's 88 Counties

Trumpeter Swan With cygnet

On Sunday, February 1st, I had the privilege of attending a photographers’ reception and guided tour at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, celebrating the Ohio’s 88 Counties photography installation. It was one of those experiences that leaves you feeling both proud and deeply appreciative to be part of something larger than yourself.

The new University Hospital has been thoughtfully designed to feel welcoming, comforting, and connected to the people it serves. Throughout the inpatient corridors, More then 600 photographs from nearly 100 photographers represent all 88 counties — a visual story of our state told through farms, lakes, covered bridges, murals, small towns, and quiet natural moments. Each floor features a map of Ohio identifying the counties and photographers on display, reinforcing the idea that every corner of our state has a story worth sharing.

This remarkable project was created, designed, and led by Adrian Boysel, Associate Director of Interior Design Planning at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, along with her talented team including Gina Jones and Megan Cavanaugh. Their vision and dedication brought together an extraordinary collection that reflects Ohio’s beauty, character, and community spirit in a meaningful and lasting way.

Seeing my own photographs installed alongside so many talented photographers — some of whom I’m proud to call friends — was incredibly rewarding. Walking the halls, recognizing familiar names, sharing stories behind the images, and connecting with fellow artists made the experience even more special. It was a reminder of how strong, supportive, and inspiring Ohio’s photography community truly is.

What makes this project especially meaningful is knowing these photographs will be seen by patients, families, and staff every day — offering moments of familiarity, comfort, and connection to places they know and love across Ohio.

I’m truly grateful to have been included in this installation and thankful to everyone who helped bring it to life. It’s an honor to have my work represented as part of this statewide visual story.

If you’d like to see the photographs of mine that were selected for the Ohio’s 88 Counties installation, I’ve shared them here: OSU Wexner Medical Center Photographs

Doors and Storefronts of Medina, Ohio

Medina, Ohio is a historic town with a charming square and many unique buildings. All around Medina Public Square, you will encounter some of the most interesting and quaint specialty shops and boutiques in the country. I wanted to capture the beauty and diversity of uptown Medina by creating a composite photograph using individual pictures of its doors and storefronts. I devoted a fall afternoon to walking around Medina Square, photographing more than 24 storefronts and doors.

In 1967, a group of Medina citizens concerned about the loss of character of the uptown area began a grassroots effort to return Public Square to its historic appearance. Today, the restored Public Square is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Looking up at the architecture of the buildings, you will see a Medina Public Square rich with stories about bygone times, creating a sense of nostalgia for visitors and residents alike.

Arriving home that late October afternoon, I downloaded the pictures to the computer. I was pleased to have captured so many great pictures, but I knew it would take a lot of work to edit each one. I was also far behind in my editing work from other photo shoots, so this project had to wait its turn. Finally, four months later, I completed the project I set out to do. The result is a stunning composite photographic series of doors and storefronts of Medina, Ohio, that reflects the historic and artistic charm of the town. The collection includes a vertical panoramic of 24 doors, a standard-sized vertical print of 16 doors, three horizontal prints of 8 doors each and 4 square prints of 6 doors each.

View the Medina Doors and Storefronts

 

 

 

 The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR) is one of the oldest and longest scenic tourist excursion railways in the country. The train runs through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park from Independence to Akron.
The Cuyahoga Valley Railway began operations in 1880, transporting iron, coal and passengers from the Tuscarawas River Valley to Cleveland, Akron, and Canton. In 1989, a mutually beneficial partnership began for the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Locomotive #6777 and #6771 approaches the train station at Indigo Lake. The train was built in Canada in 1959 by Montreal Locomotive Works. The CVSR purchased #6777 in 1994 and #6771 in April, 1993. The locomotives have a 12 cylinder 251, 1,800 horsepower diesel engine.

Part of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway's fleet is a California Zephyr trainset consisting of 5 stainless steel passenger rail cars, which were built in 1948 by the Budd Company in Philadelphia, PA.

Silver Solarium was built in 1948 by the Budd Company for the Chicago, Quincy & Burlington Railroad as CB&Q #377. It was one of the six dome/sleeper/observation cars specifically built for the California Zephyr. the Silver Solarium has been fully renovated and has been operating as a private car, delighting passengers with stunning views from its Vista Dome and observation lounge. The observation lounge seats 11 in classic railroad lounge chairs, and the Vista Dome car seats 24 in booth seating at tables. CVSR acquired the car in September, 2018.

The California Zephyr, also known as the Silver Lady, was a pioneer in luxury passenger train travel. Dubbed “the most talked about train in America,” the California Zephyr made its inaugural eastbound run on March 20, 1949 with service between San Francisco and Chicago that covered 2,525 miles and took an average of 2.5 days to complete.
The California Zephyr offered sophisticated dining experiences with linens and china; sleeping compartments that ranged from the elegant staterooms complete with bathrooms, showers, drawing rooms, and bedrooms, to the cozier “roomettes”; and Vista Dome cars with windows on every side—including the ceiling—to provide breathtaking panoramic views of the passing mountains, rivers, and countryside.
The California Zephyr operated as a passenger train for 20 years, and its 77 cars were later sold to different companies and private owners. Over the years, the majority of these stainless steel cars have all but disappeared from America’s railways, having been sold off, scrapped, or simply left in storage and fallen into complete disrepair. CVSR’s acquisition of the trainset will enable us to preserve a vital piece of our nation’s railway history that was at serious and imminent risk of being forgotten.

You are invited to view these images Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway

Visit the galleries at DaleKincaid.com - Always open and admission is FREE!

Discovering the Vintage Charm of M D Garage

Step back in time and indulge in the nostalgic allure of M D Garage Gas Station nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This hidden gem encapsulates the essence of a bygone era, offering a unique blend of automotive history and natural beauty. As you explore the vintage charm, witness the retro architecture that has stood the test of time, making M D Garage a must-see among historic landmarks.

The M.D. Garage is located in Boston Township, Ohio within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It was built in 1946 by Marjan Dzerzynski as a Pure Oil gas station. The business closed in 1980 and was purchased and restored by the National Park Service in the late 1990s complete with period signage and gas pumps. The M. D. Garage stands now as an iconic piece of history within the Boston Mills Historic District.

Fuel your curiosity with a journey through the scenic beauty of Cuyahoga Valley while discovering the timeless appeal of this roadside attraction. M D Garage promises a trip down memory lane, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a glimpse into the past. Experience the magic of yesteryears, where every corner tells a story of automotive elegance and historic significance. Join us on a nostalgic journey to uncover the hidden gems of Cuyahoga, where M D Garage stands as a testament to a simpler, more charming era.

You are invited to view these images here M D Garage

Visit the galleries at DaleKincaid.com - Always open and admission is FREE!

Prayers For Maria

One of the things on my bucket list has been has been to photograph a sunflower field. I finally made it out to the Prayers For Maria Sunflower Field in Avon, Ohio this past September. What an incredible place with nearly a mile long field of sunflowers. It was an awesome feeling just being there and watching the many people that came to visit.

I have added a new gallery at www.dalekincaid.com dedicated to the PRAYERS FOR MARIA CHILDREN’S GLIOMA CANCER FOUNDATION. Prayers from Maria is dedicated to funding global research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure for the deadliest childhood brain tumors known as gliomas; raising public awareness about gliomas and bringing hope to children and their families who deal with the hardships of this disease. Visit the web site at prayersfrommaria.org —- A mile long field of sunflowers is planted each year along a stretch of I-90 in Avon, Ohio in memory of Maria who died at age 7 from a terminal brain tumor. Two million seeds of hope were planted in 2015. What a spectacular sight to see and to experience such a feeling of hope and spirit.

Buy The Gift Of Art
For each sale from the PRAYERS FOR MARIA Gallery 25% of the profit will be donated to the Foundation.