Go big or go home.
I'd say a 200 foot long outdoor mosaic…read moremural that is ten feet tall is going big.
The "25th Street Mural Project" is the brainchild of artist Julie Bender (not her first mural in the area but one of the largest). Nearing completion, it's evolved into what appears to be a labor of love for the artist, working volunteers, and the entire community.
After reading about the project for months in local newspapers, I had to go see it yesterday.
All at once it's spectacular, heartwarming, and informative.
Spectacular in concept & creation.
Heartwarming because it's adorned with local residents' personalized, hand-decorated tiles.
Informative, displaying San Pedro's very rich history as well as historic landmarks & attractions.
The mural is on a retaining wall that runs along 25th Street (can't miss it). The lengthy process of obtaining permissions, amending an ordinance, securing permits & funding, is explained in detail on the artist's website.
The planning & prep for the mural, followed by placement of custom tiles along with donated random glass & ceramics, etc. began over a year ago according to a volunteer I was fortunate to encounter during my visit. LynnDee told me all about the tile-making process, the use of colors, the layout & design, and more. Certainly no small challenge, but so worth everyone's efforts.
Soon, she said, the sky will be added. Then grout will be applied which should make the artistry pop even more than it does now.
I regret that I didn't get around to taking advantage of the "make your own tile" opportunity, which has ended. Although I don't live in San Pedro I certainly do appreciate the city's unique & interesting treasures, all of which are proudly represented on the mural wall.
I did make a small contribution, however, by heading over to The Corner Store to buy a t-shirt that reads "Making History On 25th Street". This is certainly true. All proceeds from t-shirt sales go to help cover costs of materials.
I personally think this mural is a masterpiece & predict it will be another major tourist attraction for San Pedro (judging from the groups of people there yesterday it already is, the reason I decided it was not premature to post a review). It's whimsical, delightful & one of the coolest works of art I've seen. I couldn't stop smiling the entire time I was there.
So to Julie Bender especially, as well as everyone involved: big congrats on your accomplishment! Well done.