City Of Temecula: The City Of Temecula And Temecula Valley Museum Unveil A New Student Art Mural

Press release from the City of Temecula:

January 14, 2022

The City of Temecula, Community Services Department and Temecula Valley Museum announce a new Student Art Mural in Sam Hicks Monument Park (28300 Mercedes Street). This temporary public art piece celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and American Black History Month. 

The Student Art Mural Project seeks to support emerging artists by providing a space to showcase their craft.  Each month, student artists have the opportunity, facilitated by Bigfoot Graphics, to paint a mural on varying topics.  This beautiful mural was created by 12-year-old artist AJ Pederson with contributors Kaia Bo and Landon Stingle. AJ states, "I want this mural to inspire people of all ages to pick up a pencil and start drawing. I am so thankful for this opportunity and the support of my parents and Bigfoot Art."

AJ Pederson, a Shivela Middle School student in Murrieta, and Bigfoot Graphics art student, was asked to create a mural in celebration Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and in support of the Temecula Valley Museum's American Black History Month celebrations in February. This stunning mural features Dr. King as he delivers his most famous and compelling speech calling for the end of racism at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom held in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, August 28, 1963. The purpose of the march was to advocate for the civil and economic rights of African Americans.

City of Temecula Mayor Matt Rahn commented, “Temecula celebrates the life and message of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with this mural.  This outstanding piece of public art depicting a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement created by a 12-year-old student with a remarkable talent.  We are excited to celebrate their achievement and are proud to invite our community out to celebrate this very important legacy.”

 Local art students are invited to paint murals on canvas that will be displayed in Sam Hicks Monument Park monthly. The Student Art Mural is now displayed and will be unveiled officially on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 3:00 pm. All are welcome to attend the unveiling. The museum will also celebrate American Black History Month through facts and free crafts in the Temecula Valley Woman’s Club Art and Education Room. For more information, please call (951) 694-6450.  

This press release was produced by the City of Temecula. The views expressed here are the author’s own.