Murals - Not Just "Writing on the Wall" Anymore

In some locations people complain about outside artwork, and in some areas they still do; but if you're lucky enough to visit or travel through places where that is not the case-- primarily warmer climates, and areas with a large ethnic population-- you can see that murals are much more than writing on the wall, they are true artwork which can provide a deep appreciation for rich cultural contribution from their artists.

No longer merely gang-related "tags," or adolescent pranks showing the world that "Billy Wuz Here," this form of artwork which has been around for many generations is gaining a new popularity and a new acceptance. The two main factors about murals are that they give a strong and beautiful emphasis on the background, lifestyle and culture of their artists; and they tell a story. In many parts of California, for example, one can walk along beach areas and be treated not only to beach scenes but huge painted portraits of surfers who were popular in the past. In locations with a large Chicano population, you can see murals similar to this one I photographed a few years ago of old-time rock'n'roll star Ritchie Valens, located in Oxnard.

By far one of the best cities to find culturally-inspired murals is El Paso, Texas. There are murals showing old farmers, murals of Aztec design, and, one of my favorites which clearly shows pride, faith and community, designed by Carlos Rossas.

It may or may not be surprising to learn that colleges in some major cities actually have classes to teach the art of mural-making; while this grants an even more socially-acceptable aura to the subject in general, it is still no match for those whose artistry, talent and motivation come from within the heart and soul. Art appreciation can be taught; creativity can be taught; but the richness and cultural flavor which make these murals so fascinating comes from within the artist himself. True art-- it is as if it's within the artist's blood.

Whether one likes art or not isn't the actual focus, for it is more about the story-telling and its history. If you wish to learn about people-- who they are, where they came from, what kinds of lives they've lived-- taking up an interest in murals is a very good beginning. If you aren't fortunate enough to be able to travel to locations where murals are a scenic part of everyday life, you can find replicas of many online, although it does not do adequate justice to the larger-than-life murals of El Paso. But any visual stimulation you may find, regardless of the source, should clarify that the "bad reputation" frequently associated with graffiti and spray paint should in no way be connected to this amazingly great form of art. Through the mural artist's magical touch, one can see the past, the present, and share his dreams for the future.