My newest mural "ELEPHUNKTL" in Lincoln Heights.
I wanted to combine the importance of cultures and how they make up this unique
Los Angeles neighborhood, the 2nd oldest in the City.
The mural depicts a multi-armed elephant that symbolizes the Asian influence in the neighborhood. Although I didn't mean it to directly reference the Eastern god Ganesha, the Chinese view the elephant as a symbol of wisdom and strength. This neighborhood, specifically the building that hosts this mural,
has been the home for many garment companies who have been employing Asian seamstresses for decades. The work ethic and long hours these mostly Asian women put in daily is what made me want to use the elephant as a symbol in the mural.
Behind the head of the elephant-like figure are large colorful Aztec feathers and plumes. Obviously the Mexican influence in this part of town is undeniable. Directly across the street from the mural is Lincoln Park and the Parque de Mexico where hundreds of Aztec dancers gather each year to celebrate near the statue of the last Aztec Emperor, Cuahtemoc.
Finally, the reference to the spray can necklace and the aerosol tip
the creature is pointing at, are a nod to the young people of this area, almost like the patron saint of street art to this community.
This mural is part of the
#Latagrafica campaign bringing murals and art to Angelenos in 2014 and was made possible by Red Bull. Here are some pics of the mural unveiling held at the Sweatshop Studio.
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